seal shut

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seal shut" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe something being sealed closed so that no air or other substances can pass through it. For example, "After all the food was packaged, we sealed the boxes shut with tape to keep them from spoiling."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Military inspectors ignored aging blast doors at 60-year-old silos that would not seal shut.

The New York Times

Philosophy has tried to turn open questions about the good life, beauty, and justice into arguments that experts can seal shut with certainty.

The Guardian

Past him, through two sets of locking metal doors that seal shut one after another, Sgt. Beth Ehren often puts in a 16-hour day at Central Control.

The New York Times

In the autumn of 2015, after 123 years of making cans in Baltimore, Crown Cork & Seal shut down the plant where Mr. Branch worked.

The New York Times

After the government demanded encryption keys that would give it unfettered access to every Lavabit account, the company's founder, Ladar Levison — the appellant, whose identity is technically under seal — shut the company down two months ago and vowed to "continue to fight for the Constitution".

The New Yorker

Some voids refill, others seal shut.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Versa Capital Management has finished its deal to buy Orange County retailer Wet Seal, shutting a chapter on a troubled retailer rocked by turmoil.

Los Angeles Times

It's closed, sealed shut.

The New York Times

Manhole covers are sealed shut.

The New York Times

Behind them, the hatch sealed shut.

The New Yorker

Ma'am But the window is sealed shut.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seal shut" to describe a process, ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being sealed and why. For example, "The evidence was sealed shut in an envelope to prevent tampering."

Common error

Avoid using "seal shut" in overly abstract contexts where a more nuanced verb might be appropriate. For instance, instead of saying "The discussion was sealed shut", consider using "The discussion was concluded" or "The matter was settled."

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "seal shut" is as a phrasal verb. It typically functions as a verb phrase modifying a noun. The phrase describes the action of closing something securely, often to prevent entry or exit.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seal shut" functions as a phrasal verb that describes the action of securely closing something to prevent access or leakage. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and is frequently found in news and media, wiki, and science-related contexts. While "seal shut" is generally appropriate for many situations, more formal alternatives like "close securely" or "fasten tightly" may be more suitable for professional settings. When writing, be mindful of overusing the phrase in abstract contexts where more nuanced verbs could be more effective. Ensure the purpose is to emphasize preventing something from entering or exiting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make airtight

Specifically refers to creating a barrier against air passage.

close hermetically

Describes a method of sealing that is airtight and impermeable.

close securely

Emphasizes the action of closing something in a way that prevents it from being easily opened.

fasten securely

Focuses on the dependable nature of the fastening.

fasten tightly

Highlights the physical act of securing something so it cannot be easily moved or opened.

secure completely

Emphasizes the thoroughness of the securing action.

close off

Focuses on the action of preventing access or passage to something.

close firmly

Highlights the force applied when closing something.

block off

Implies creating a barrier to prevent entry or exit.

render inaccessible

Highlights the result of making something impossible to reach or enter.

FAQs

How can I use "seal shut" in a sentence?

You can use "seal shut" to describe something being closed and secured tightly, preventing access or leakage. For instance, "They "sealed shut" the container to preserve the contents."

What's the difference between "seal shut" and "close"?

"Close" simply means to bring something together, while "seal shut" implies a more secure and airtight closure. Sealing something "seal shut" suggests preventing anything from entering or exiting.

Which is more appropriate: "seal shut" or "close tightly"?

"Seal shut" implies a more permanent or secure closure, often with the intention of preventing leaks or intrusion. "Close tightly" simply means to "close firmly" and is less specific about the purpose of the closure.

What can I say instead of "seal shut" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "close securely" or "fasten tightly". These alternatives convey a similar meaning while maintaining a higher degree of formality.