practically nonexistent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "practically nonexistent" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is almost completely absent or lacking in existence. Example: "In this remote area, reliable internet access is practically nonexistent, making it difficult for residents to work from home."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Rivers are practically nonexistent.

The New York Times - Travel

Legroom is practically nonexistent.

The New York Times - Travel

Hired help was practically nonexistent.

The New York Times

Security guards are practically nonexistent.

The New York Times

And privacy is practically nonexistent.

The New York Times

You've got a practically nonexistent middle class.

Yale University

In places like Townsville, it's practically nonexistent.

The Guardian - Opinion

Courses on contemporary rappers are practically nonexistent.

The Washington Post

And experts say enforcement is practically nonexistent.

The New York Times

His immune system was practically nonexistent.

The New York Times - Health

In the caves, plumbing, electricity, and telephones were practically nonexistent.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "practically nonexistent", ensure that the context clearly indicates the degree of absence. It implies something is close to, but not entirely, absent. If complete absence is intended, consider using "nonexistent".

Common error

Avoid using "practically nonexistent" when something is completely absent. The phrase suggests a near-absence, not a complete lack. Using it incorrectly can mislead your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "practically nonexistent" functions as an adjectival modifier, typically describing a noun by indicating that it is almost completely absent. Ludwig confirms this with examples across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

18%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Science

13%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "practically nonexistent" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something that is almost entirely absent. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is frequently used in News & Media, Academic, and Encyclopedia contexts. While the phrase is generally safe to use, it's important to ensure that you are conveying the appropriate degree of absence. It's important to note that "practically nonexistent" describes something that approaches non-existence, but is not completely gone. If you want to emphasize the total absence of something you should look for terms such as "virtually absent".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

virtually absent

Emphasizes the near-total absence, focusing on the effect rather than the degree of existence.

almost absent

Highlights the minimal presence, suggesting a slight degree of existence.

scarcely present

Indicates that something is barely there or noticeable, emphasizing its rarity.

effectively absent

Stresses the outcome of being absent, implying that it functions as if it doesn't exist.

nearly absent

Similar to "almost absent", but can imply a slightly higher degree of absence.

functionally absent

Highlights that while something might technically exist, it does not perform its intended function.

as good as absent

Indicates that the item or concept in question might exist, but is so diminished in quality or size so as to be considered absent.

tantamount to absent

Highlights that the item or concept in question might exist, but is so diminished in quality or size so as to be considered absent.

negligibly present

Stresses the insignificance of its presence, implying that it has little to no impact.

for all intents and purposes absent

Indicates that for practical considerations, it can be considered as not existing.

FAQs

How can I use "practically nonexistent" in a sentence?

The phrase "practically nonexistent" describes something that is almost entirely lacking or absent. For example, "In this remote area, internet access is "practically nonexistent"."

What's a good substitute for "practically nonexistent"?

Alternatives include "virtually absent", "almost absent", or "scarcely present". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it more accurate to say "practically nonexistent" or "completely nonexistent"?

The phrase "completely nonexistent" indicates total absence, while "practically nonexistent" suggests something is close to being absent but might have a minimal presence. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the degree of absence.

What's the difference between "practically nonexistent" and "negligible"?

"Negligible" refers to something so small or unimportant that it can be disregarded. "Practically nonexistent" focuses on the near-absence of something, while "negligible" focuses on its lack of significance, even if present.