narrow passage

USAGE SUMMARY

'narrow passage' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when talking about an area or corridor that is not wide enough for more than one person to pass through at a time. For example: "We made our way through the narrow passage of the underground cave."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

They scrambled down the steps into a narrow passage.

The New Yorker

But all that's left for you is this narrow passage.

The New Yorker

This narrow passage of boutiques will keep hoarders of vintage happy for hours.

The Guardian - Travel

If I turn my head, a headtorch illuminates the moist, rough walls of the narrow passage.

The Guardian - Arts

It is a narrow passage, not greatly used because it terminates abruptly and leads nowhere.

The New Yorker

"We're committed to performing a bed refurbishment of the very narrow passage," Mr. Nash said.

The New York Times

Lot of people was desperately running along the narrow passage and down the staircase.

The Guardian

The Sheriff and one of his men hurried down the narrow passage between the bunks and out the other side.

The New Yorker

You enter the memorial from Independence Avenue by walking through a narrow passage between two granite mounds.

The New York Times - Arts

Makassar Strait, also spelled Macassar Strait, Indonesian Selat Makassar, narrow passage of the west-central Pacific Ocean, Indonesia.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We immediately deduced that one of the boats had used its searchlight to find the narrow passage through the coral.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical spaces, use "narrow passage" to clearly indicate a limited width that restricts movement. It's more descriptive than just saying "passage".

Common error

Avoid using "narrow passage" when you mean a situation where someone barely avoids danger or a negative outcome. For that, use the idiom "narrow escape" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "narrow passage" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It describes a specific type of space characterized by its limited width. This is supported by Ludwig examples showing it used in various contexts, such as describing physical locations or routes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Encyclopedias

17%

Science

14%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "narrow passage" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a constricted physical space. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and wide applicability across various contexts. It appears most frequently in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. While alternatives like "confined space" or "tight corridor" exist, "narrow passage" provides a clear and versatile way to depict limited width. Remember to avoid confusing it with the idiom "narrow escape" which has a completely different meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

confined space

This alternative emphasizes the limited space available, often highlighting restrictions.

tight corridor

This alternative specifically implies a long, narrow enclosed space, like a hallway.

restricted channel

This suggests a constrained route, often used in technical or nautical contexts.

constricted pathway

This implies a route that is unnaturally or forcibly narrowed.

limited access

This highlights the difficulty or restrictions in entering or moving through the space.

close quarters

This emphasizes the feeling of being in a small, cramped environment.

confined route

This implies that the path is narrow.

tight spot

A more informal term referring to a physical situation.

small opening

Emphasizes the size of the entrance rather than the passage itself.

restricted aperture

Suggests a controlled or regulated opening, often in a technical setting.

FAQs

How can I use "narrow passage" in a sentence?

You can use "narrow passage" to describe a physical space that is constricted and allows limited movement. For example, "The explorers squeezed through the narrow passage to reach the hidden chamber."

What is a good alternative to "narrow passage"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "narrow passage" include "confined space", "tight corridor", or "restricted channel".

Is "narrow passage" formal or informal?

"Narrow passage" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. The choice depends on the surrounding language and the overall tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "narrow passage" and "narrow escape"?

"Narrow passage" refers to a constricted physical space, while "narrow escape" refers to barely avoiding a dangerous or undesirable situation. They are unrelated in meaning.