line of sight

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'line of sight' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the unobstructed view between an observer and a distant object. For example, "The eagle had a clear line of sight to its prey."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Line of sight.

Nature

Locals nervously avoid its line of sight.

The New York Times

Looking for a line of sight.

The New Yorker

Visual line of sight aircraft operation.

Cornell University

What is the line of sight?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

§ 107.31 Visual line of sight aircraft operation.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

Line-of-Sight Networks.

Cornell University

This results in line-of-sight deposition.

Surface and Coatings Technology

We call this line-of-sight.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Exploring the line-of-sight issue overseas.

Harvard Business Review

Satellites need a line-of-sight transmission path.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing wireless communication systems, clarify whether you are referring to "line of sight" or non-line-of-sight (NLOS) conditions to ensure clarity about signal propagation.

Common error

Avoid using "line of sight" when there are known obstructions. Instead, acknowledge the presence of obstacles and describe their impact on visibility or signal transmission. Failing to do so misrepresents the scenario.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "line of sight" functions as a noun phrase, typically describing a direct, unobstructed visual or signal path between two points. It often serves as a subject or object in a sentence, indicating the presence or absence of a clear connection. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

58%

News & Media

26%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "line of sight" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase, primarily found in scientific, news, and academic contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, indicating that it effectively conveys the concept of a direct, unobstructed path between two points. When using this phrase, remember that it implies the absence of obstacles, and clarity is essential when discussing related concepts such as "field of view" or non-line-of-sight conditions. Remember to be precise in technical contexts and avoid using the term when obstructions are present.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sightline

Synonymous, but slightly more technical, often used in design or planning contexts.

line of vision

Synonymous, emphasizing the act of seeing more than the path itself.

direct visibility

Focuses specifically on the act of being able to see something directly, with less emphasis on the path.

clear view

Implies an unobstructed view, but does not necessarily denote a straight path.

unobstructed view

Highlights the absence of obstacles in seeing something.

direct line

Highlights the straight, unimpeded nature of the connection or view.

visual access

Emphasizes the ability to see something, often in a broader sense than a physical path.

optical path

Technical term referring to the route light travels, suitable in scientific contexts.

visual range

Refers to the distance within which something can be seen, rather than the path.

field of view

Denotes the extent of what is visible, not necessarily a direct path.

FAQs

How is "line of sight" used in the context of wireless communication?

In wireless communication, "line of sight" refers to a direct, unobstructed path between a transmitter and receiver. This is ideal for signal strength and quality, but often not possible in real-world scenarios. Non-line-of-sight conditions, where signals are reflected or diffracted, are also common.

What's the difference between "field of view" and "line of sight"?

"Line of sight" refers to a specific, clear path between two points, whereas "field of view" describes the entire area visible to an observer or a device at a given moment.

When is "line of sight" important in photography?

"Line of sight" is critical in photography for composition and focus. An unobstructed "line of sight" ensures the subject is clearly visible and not blocked by foreground elements, leading to a more impactful image.

Can I use "clear view" instead of "line of sight"?

While "clear view" can sometimes replace "line of sight", it doesn't always convey the same meaning. "Line of sight" specifically implies a straight, unobstructed path, whereas "clear view" simply means that the view is not obstructed, regardless of the path.