line of contact

USAGE SUMMARY

"line of contact" is a correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the imaginary line where two objects or surfaces come in contact with each other. Examples: 1. The line of contact between the two puzzle pieces was barely visible, making it difficult to put them together. 2. The coach emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong line of contact between the defender and the opposing player during the game. 3. The scientists studied the line of contact between the tectonic plates, trying to understand the cause of the earthquake. 4. The new policy requires employees to maintain proper distance and avoid any line of contact with customers during the pandemic. 5. The artist used a ruler to create a perfect line of contact between the colors in the painting.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Violence along the line of contact between the two forces has steadily increased over the last several months.

The Guardian

DOMINIONS ARE INTERESTED Australia and New Zealand Wish Mediterranean Kept Open as Line of Contact With Britain.

The New York Times

The Harop sighting came during heavy fighting across the line of contact separating the autonomous region of Nagorno-Karabakh and Azerbaijan.

The Washington Post

One broadcast noted that the single bullet that crossed the line of contact that day was the one that lodged in the boy's head.

The New York Times

The conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh continues at a low simmer with periodic violence along the line of contact, including frequent exchanges of gunfire and occasional casualties.

The New York Times

The line of contact in this trade war has taken a twist on that name, sometimes being called the Milk Curtain.

The New York Times

Cease-fire violations — every year, snipers kill roughly 30 people on either side of the so-called line of contact — can take on huge proportions.

The New York Times

In this paper, a non-uniform model of load distribution along the line of contact, recently developed, obtained from the minimum elastic potential criterion, has been used.

Mechanism and Machine Theory

In this paper, a model of non-uniform load distribution along the line of contact, obtained from the minimum elastic potential energy criterion, is presented.

Mechanism and Machine Theory

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Ms. García's illness was discovered through a long line of contact-tracing.

The New York Times - Health

The dispute has become one of the world's 'frozen conflicts', and dozens are killed in clashes along the highly-militarised 'line of contact' each year.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "line of contact" in military or political contexts, ensure clarity about the specific conflict or area being referenced. Provide sufficient context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "line of contact" when you actually mean "chain of command". "Line of contact" refers to a physical or metaphorical boundary where interaction occurs, while "chain of command" describes a hierarchical structure of authority.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "line of contact" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically designates a boundary or a zone of interaction, whether physical (as in military contexts) or metaphorical (as in describing interfaces between systems). Ludwig examples show its usage in diverse contexts, from geographical conflicts to abstract interactions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "line of contact" is a versatile noun phrase commonly used to denote a boundary or area of interaction, often in contexts involving conflict or interface. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a correct and valid expression. While frequently encountered in news and media covering geopolitical conflicts, its applications extend to scientific and business domains. Understanding the appropriate context and potential for confusion with similar terms like "chain of command" is crucial for effective communication. Using alternative phrases like "zone of engagement" or "interface depending on the intended meaning, can further enhance clarity".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

zone of engagement

Focuses on the area where active interaction or conflict occurs.

demarcation line

Implies a clearly marked boundary, often for military or political purposes.

battlefront

Specifically refers to the forward edge of a military conflict.

forward line

Specifically refers to the foremost position in a military context.

dividing line

Emphasizes the separation or boundary created by the contact.

interface

Highlights the area where different systems or entities interact.

contact point

Highlights a specific location or point of interaction.

boundary

Indicates a defined limit or border between two areas.

meeting point

Emphasizes a location where entities converge or interact.

border

Similar to boundary, emphasizing a political or geographical division.

FAQs

How is "line of contact" used in military contexts?

In military contexts, "line of contact" typically refers to the boundary between opposing forces or areas of control. It can also describe a zone where engagement or interaction is likely to occur.

What's the difference between "dividing line" and "line of contact"?

"Line of contact" implies an interaction or potential conflict, while "dividing line" simply suggests a separation or boundary without necessarily implying active engagement.

Can "line of contact" be used in non-military settings?

Yes, "line of contact" can be used metaphorically to describe any boundary or interface where different entities or systems interact, such as in business or science.

What phrases can I use instead of "line of contact" in a formal context?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "interface", "boundary", or "demarcation line depending on the specific meaning you want to convey".