playing in the sand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "playing in the sand" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the activity of engaging with sand, often in a playful or recreational context, such as at a beach or sandbox. Example: "The children were happily playing in the sand, building castles and digging tunnels."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

It was just children playing in the sand.

The New Yorker

Every little child should be playing in the sand.

The Guardian

He recalled: "Four young boys were playing in the sand.

The Guardian

As the tale progresses, the men relax into the role of stooges playing in the sand.

The New York Times - Books

Having men around when the kids are mixing paints and playing in the sand tray isn't.

The Guardian

When he returned home in July, he found photographers lining his beach and Matthew McConaughey playing in the sand.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

"She likes to play in the sand".

The New York Times - Sports

Her brother, in a similar outfit, played in the sand.

The New York Times - Food

"When you play in the sand, symbols form".

The New York Times

You must like to play in the sand".

The New York Times

"I went to the beach today and played in the sand.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a scene, use "playing in the sand" to evoke a sense of carefree fun and relaxation, particularly in coastal or recreational settings. This phrase often brings to mind images of children, but it can also apply to adults enjoying beach activities.

Common error

While "playing in the sand" is perfectly acceptable in many situations, it may sound too informal or whimsical for serious or professional writing. In such cases, consider using more neutral or descriptive language, such as "engaging in beach activities" or "spending time at the shore."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "playing in the sand" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. This use is supported by Ludwig, which confirms its grammatical correctness. It describes an activity and can serve as the subject or object of a sentence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "playing in the sand" is a grammatically correct gerund phrase that commonly describes a recreational activity, often associated with carefree fun and childhood memories. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used and understood, appearing frequently in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's best suited for informal settings, with more formal contexts potentially benefiting from more descriptive alternatives. Key authoritative sources using this phrase include The New York Times, The Guardian, and The New Yorker, indicating its prevalence in mainstream media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

digging in the sand

Highlights the act of excavating or creating holes in the sand, suggesting a more exploratory or inquisitive interaction.

frolicking on the beach

Emphasizes joyful and carefree movement on the beach, suggesting a more active and playful interaction with the environment.

making sand angels

Refers to the specific activity of creating angel shapes in the sand by moving one's arms and legs, indicating a more whimsical and imaginative interaction.

building sandcastles

Focuses specifically on the activity of constructing structures from sand, implying a creative and constructive engagement.

wading in the shallows

Highlights the act of walking or standing in the shallow water near the shore, suggesting a more cautious and exploratory interaction with the marine environment.

enjoying a beach day

Encompasses a broader range of activities and experiences associated with spending time at the beach, including swimming, sunbathing and playing.

having fun at the seaside

A general expression for enjoying oneself at the beach, encompassing all sorts of activities that can take place at a beach.

relaxing on the beach

Shifts the focus to a more passive and restful experience, emphasizing leisure and tranquility rather than active play.

lounging by the sea

Suggests a state of comfortable relaxation near the ocean, emphasizing leisure and enjoyment of the coastal environment.

spending time on the coast

A more general expression referring to time spent near any coastal area, not just beaches, and may not necessarily involve recreational activities.

FAQs

How can I use "playing in the sand" in a sentence?

You can use "playing in the sand" to describe a recreational activity, as in "The children were happily playing in the sand". It can also be used metaphorically to suggest a lack of seriousness or productivity.

What are some alternatives to "playing in the sand"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "frolicking on the beach", "building sandcastles", or "digging in the sand".

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "playing in the sand"?

While the phrase is grammatically correct and widely understood, it's best suited for informal or descriptive contexts. In more formal writing, consider using more specific and professional language.

What does "playing in the sand" typically imply?

The phrase usually suggests a carefree and enjoyable activity, often associated with childhood or vacation. It can also imply a lack of focus or seriousness, depending on the context.