out of reach

USAGE SUMMARY

"out of reach" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe something that is not within one's power or ability to gain or obtain. For example, "The rare book is out of reach for most collectors due to its high price."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is forever out of reach.

The New Yorker

Stashed out of reach.

The New York Times - Tech

Keeping out of reach.

Harvard University

My summit is just out of reach".

Independent

Still, an apartment remains out of reach.

The New York Times

But her heart was out of reach.

The New York Times

Heaven is not out of reach.

The New York Times

He is never out of reach here.

The New York Times

Meaning remained just out of reach.

The New Yorker

He bounced topspin groundstrokes out of reach.

The New York Times - Sports

West might soon be out of reach.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "out of reach" in a sentence, ensure that the context clearly indicates what is unattainable, whether it's a physical object, a goal, or an abstract concept.

Common error

Avoid using "out of reach" when a more precise term like 'unrealistic' or 'unlikely' would better convey the intended meaning. Ensure the context warrants the implication of inaccessibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "out of reach" primarily functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that something is unattainable or inaccessible. Ludwig examples confirm its use in describing both physical and abstract concepts that cannot be obtained or achieved.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "out of reach" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something unattainable. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, primarily in news, wiki, and science. While its register is generally neutral, it is essential to ensure that the context warrants the implication of inaccessibility. Alternatives like "unattainable" or "inaccessible" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Be mindful of the potential misuse in abstract contexts where more precise terms may be appropriate. Overall, "out of reach" is a versatile phrase useful for indicating something beyond one's grasp.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

beyond reach

A more concise way of saying that something is not within one's grasp.

not within reach

A more literal rephrasing of the original phrase.

unattainable

Focuses on the impossibility of achieving or obtaining something.

inaccessible

Emphasizes the difficulty or impossibility of access.

beyond one's grasp

Highlights the inability to physically or metaphorically seize something.

unachievable

Stresses that something cannot be achieved or accomplished.

not feasible

Indicates that something is not practical or possible.

off-limits

Highlights something is prohibited or restricted.

beyond the pale

Indicates something unacceptable or inappropriate, extending beyond acceptable limits.

in the distance

Highlights something that is far away and not possible to reach or grasp

FAQs

How can I use "out of reach" in a sentence?

You can use "out of reach" to describe something that is unattainable or inaccessible. For example, "The summit seemed "out of reach" after hours of climbing".

What are some alternatives to saying "out of reach"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "unattainable", "inaccessible", or "beyond reach".

Is it correct to say "beyond reach" instead of "out of reach"?

Yes, "beyond reach" is a perfectly acceptable alternative to "out of reach" and carries essentially the same meaning. Both indicate something is unattainable.

What's the difference between "out of reach" and "out of touch"?

"Out of reach" describes something that is impossible to obtain or achieve, while "out of touch" describes someone who is no longer aware of or familiar with current events or trends. They have different meanings and are not interchangeable.