shorter distance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shorter distance" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to compare the length or distance between two objects or locations. Example: "I prefer to take the shorter distance route to work because it saves me time in the morning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

A particularly fast workout at a shorter distance could have left him too worked up.

The New York Times - Sports

If shot parallel to the ground, it would go a much shorter distance, he said.

The New York Times

A slightly shorter distance from Phoenix is Sedona, offering excellent hiking through the red rock region.

The New York Times

But officials in Northwest Territories see lower costs and shorter distance as their best advantages.

The New York Times

The answer is to ride over a shorter distance, but faster.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Typically, a shorter distance between you and your goal is more motivating than a longer one.

Harvard Business Review

Electrons in metal clusters encounter the boundaries of their cluster in a much shorter distance.

Britannica

Mercury is going much faster and has a shorter distance to travel.

The New York Times - Style

A shorter distance swam by the runners also suggested improved learning over the nonrunners (p < 0.05).

Brain Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Also, as an adult I have completed something like six marathons, and several shorter-distance runs.

Los Angeles Times

Examples of regulated tickets are season tickets, off-peak tickets for longer journeys and some shorter-distance day return tickets.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing distances, clearly specify what you are comparing to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "take the "shorter distance"," specify "take the "shorter distance" route."

Common error

Avoid using "shorter distance" when you actually mean "shorter time". A route might have a "shorter distance" but take longer due to traffic or other factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shorter distance" functions primarily as a noun phrase modified by a comparative adjective. It identifies a specific measurement that is less than another. This usage is supported by Ludwig, which confirms the grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

26%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "shorter distance" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that denotes a smaller measurement between two points. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is appropriate for diverse contexts, from formal scientific papers to news reports. The phrase functions as a noun phrase modified by a comparative adjective, serving the purpose of comparing spatial or temporal extents. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, always ensure that you clarify what you are comparing to provide enough context. Be mindful of potential ambiguity with "shorter time" and choose the wording that most accurately reflects the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

closer range

Focuses on proximity rather than a measurable length.

lesser distance

Uses a more formal adjective to indicate reduction in length.

nearby location

Emphasizes the proximity of a place.

reduced length

Highlights the physical dimension that has been diminished.

smaller gap

Refers to the space between two points that has decreased.

shortened span

Suggests a decrease in the extent between two points or times.

compressed interval

Describes a period or space that has been reduced.

truncated segment

Indicates that a part has been cut off, making the whole "shorter distance".

diminished reach

Focuses on the capacity to extend or access, now limited by a "shorter distance".

nearby point

Emphasizes a close position.

FAQs

How can I use "shorter distance" in a sentence?

You can use "shorter distance" to describe a route, a physical space, or even a conceptual gap. For example, "The new highway offers a "shorter distance" between the two cities."

What are some alternatives to using "shorter distance"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "closer range", "lesser distance", or "nearby location".

Is it always better to choose the "shorter distance"?

Not necessarily. Factors like speed limits, traffic, and terrain can make a longer route faster than a route with a "shorter distance". Consider all variables.

What is the difference between "shortest distance" and "shorter distance"?

"Shortest distance" refers to the absolute minimum distance, while "shorter distance" indicates that something is less distant than something else. You use "shortest" for the smallest possible length or measurement and "shorter" for comparative measurements.