palpable absence of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "palpable absence of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a noticeable or significant lack of something in a particular context. Example: "In the meeting, there was a palpable absence of enthusiasm among the team members, indicating their dissatisfaction with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"There's wintry virtuosity at play, combined with a palpable absence of any need to show off," he continued.

The New York Times - Arts

It also suggests a kind of memorial plinth, a monument to the palpable absence of Mr. Ai".

The New Yorker

He coupled this with a palpable absence of the national pride Mr. Cameron has urged on a nation hosting its first Olympics since 1948.

The New York Times - Sports

It also suggests a kind of memorial plinth, a monument to the palpable absence of Mr. Ai, who is not allowed to leave China.

The New York Times - Arts

There was also a palpable absence of dread in the voices of the three teenage women -- Tatiana Golovin, Maria Sharapova and Karolina Sprem -- as they discussed their prospects against more established figures in the next round.

The New York Times - Sports

In 2009, rapper Wale released a controversial music video for his song, "Pretty Girls" in which there was a palpable absence of women who wouldn't pass the paper bag test.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

In 2001, the twin towers of the World Trade Centre were an unloved New York landmark that became overnight a palpable absence on the skyline and a complex emblem for our tormented times.

The Guardian - Film

And so Spurs are in the quarter-finals of a tournament that – pace the European Champions – contains no genuinely intimidating opponents and with the prospect of Gareth Bale, a palpable absence, returning.

The Guardian - Sport

After a palpable absence last week, Alec Baldwin returned to play Mr. Trump in the midst of an alien invasion.

The New York Times

The spleen tip was palpable despite absence of adenopathy.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

To be a single self in this world of palpable absences is to have lost everything.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "palpable absence of", ensure that the absence is indeed noticeable and creates a tangible effect or feeling in the context you are describing. This will maximize the phrase's impact.

Common error

Avoid using "palpable absence of" when the lack is minor or insignificant. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic. Reserve it for situations where the absence has a substantial and noticeable effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "palpable absence of" functions as a noun phrase modifier. It describes a particular kind of absence – one that is easily felt or noticed. As Ludwig AI pointed out, its use is grammatically correct and widely accepted.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "palpable absence of" effectively conveys a noticeable lack of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While not exceedingly common, occurring primarily in news and scientific contexts, it serves to emphasize the significance of something missing. Consider using related phrases like "noticeable lack of" or "evident deficiency of" for variety. Remember to use "palpable absence of" when the absence is both significant and easily perceived to maximize its communicative impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

noticeable lack of

Replaces "palpable absence" with a more straightforward term for lack, maintaining the emphasis on being easily perceived.

easily felt lack of

Rephrases the idea to focus on the sensation or feeling of the absence, rather than just stating it.

evident deficiency of

Substitutes "palpable absence" with language that sounds more formal, implying that the deficiency is apparent and clear.

clear inadequacy of

Emphasizes that something is not just missing but insufficient for a purpose.

marked paucity of

Replaces "palpable absence" with "paucity," indicating scarcity, and "marked," highlighting the noticeable nature of the lack.

readily apparent omission of

Focuses on the idea that something has been left out, and it's obvious.

conspicuous want of

Replaces "palpable absence" with a more antiquated and emphatic expression of lack, indicating something is clearly missing.

demonstrable shortage of

Indicates a lack that can be shown or proven, making it empirically evident.

distinct unavailability of

Highlights that something is not accessible or obtainable, and this is clear.

obvious nonexistence of

Indicates that something does not exist, and this is unmistakable.

FAQs

How can I use "palpable absence of" in a sentence?

You can use "palpable absence of" to describe a significant lack of something that is easily noticed or felt. For example, "There was a palpable absence of enthusiasm at the meeting."

What are some alternatives to "palpable absence of"?

Some alternatives include "noticeable lack of", "evident deficiency of", or "marked paucity of". You can also use phrases like "clear inadequacy of" or "readily apparent omission of" depending on the specific context.

Is "palpable absence of" formal or informal?

"Palpable absence of" is generally considered a more formal phrase, suitable for professional, academic, or journalistic writing. More informal alternatives may be more appropriate in casual conversation.

What does "palpable absence of" mean?

The phrase "palpable absence of" refers to a lack of something that is so evident or noticeable that it creates a tangible feeling or atmosphere. It signifies that the missing element is keenly felt by those present or affected.