occupying the space

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "occupying the space" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is physically present in a particular area or metaphorically in a context such as a conversation or situation. Example: "The large sculpture is occupying the space in the center of the gallery, drawing the attention of all visitors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A caterer and store is now occupying the space.

The New York Times

As a feminist, you are occupying the space of the marginalised; to do so thoughtlessly is an act of trespass.

The Guardian - Opinion

At the University of Ulster students are protesting the proposed closure of their common room by occupying the space.

The Guardian

Dangling from the ceiling are several large fish, decapitated, hollowed out, and hanging from their tails, with light bulbs occupying the space where their stomachs would have been.

The New York Times

The introduction of two deep midfielders, Xabi Alonso and Sergio Busquets, occupying the space once filled by Marcos Senna alone, is one reason.

The Guardian - Sport

It is too big, occupying the space where air that arrives from the nose should flow freely into the windpipe and lungs.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Occupying the space is a two-story building that used to be a bank branch, tunneling through which is the covered driveway leading to the terminal's loading dock.

The New York Times

This confrontation, over and over again, has also been used to reinforce a definition of black identity as occupying the space where "whiteness" leaves off.

The Guardian - Opinion

The company expects to begin occupying the space this fall and will eventually have up to 350 employees and contributors at Starrett-Lehigh.

The New York Times

Tim Hamilton, now occupying the space, was nominated by the Council of Fashion Designers of America for a men's wear award this year.

The New York Times

The fact that no one is waiting to take their turn; everyone is there occupying the space together, audience and actors.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical writing, "occupying the space" can clearly indicate the physical presence or allocation of resources within a system or structure. Consider using it to explain how elements interact within a defined environment.

Common error

Avoid using "occupying the space" when simpler alternatives like "filling" or "using" are more direct and clear. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "occupying the space" functions as a verbal phrase, often serving as part of a continuous verb tense to describe an ongoing action. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is versatile and frequently appears in various contexts. The phrase denotes the action of taking up or utilizing a certain area or position.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "occupying the space" is a versatile verbal phrase commonly used to describe the physical or metaphorical presence of something within a defined area. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct and widely accepted across various contexts. This phrase is most frequently found in news and media, scientific literature, and academic writing. While it's suitable for formal settings, it also appears in more informal contexts. When writing, ensure that "occupying the space" is used precisely and avoid overuse in simple descriptions where clearer alternatives exist.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

taking up the space

Focuses on the action of filling or using a particular area, similar to occupying.

filling the area

Emphasizes the action of completely using all available room.

utilizing the space

Highlights the practical use of the area.

taking over the area

Implies control or dominance of the space.

inhabiting the area

Suggests dwelling or residing within the space.

commandeering the space

Emphasizes the forceful or unauthorized taking of the space.

monopolizing the space

Highlights exclusive control and preventing others from using the space.

engrossing the space

Implies completely absorbing or dominating the area.

appropriating the space

Highlights the act of taking the space, often without permission.

annexing the space

Suggests incorporating the space into a larger territory or entity.

FAQs

How can I use "occupying the space" in a sentence?

The phrase "occupying the space" can be used to describe something physically present or metaphorically taking up a role or position. For example, "The new exhibit is "occupying the space" that was previously a storage room" or "This idea is "occupying the space" in my thoughts."

What are some alternatives to "occupying the space"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "taking up the space", "filling the area", or "utilizing the space".

Is it correct to say "occupies the space" instead of "occupying the space"?

Yes, "occupies the space" is grammatically correct, but it has a slightly different tense and usage. "Occupies the space" is present tense and refers to a general or habitual action, while "occupying the space" is present continuous and describes an action happening now.

What's the difference between "occupying the space" and "filling the space"?

"Occupying the space" suggests a presence or utilization, whereas "filling the space" implies completeness. "Occupying the space" might refer to partially using an area, but "filling the space" suggests there is no room for anything else.