sit vacant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sit vacant" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a space or position that is unoccupied or not filled. Example: "The office has been sitting vacant for months, waiting for a new tenant."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Now many shops sit vacant.

The Economist

Once-coveted riverfront homes sit vacant.

The New York Times

Now almost 1m unsold homes sit vacant across the country.

The Economist

In the Englewood neighborhood of Chicago, many houses sit vacant.

The New York Times - Magazine

The space may sit vacant for a long time.

The New York Times

Many flats sit vacant despite legions of prospective buyers desperately seeking affordable housing.

The Economist

While thousands of homes sit vacant, many low-income Baltimore residents have difficulty affording housing.

The Washington Post

And it means that two key positions sit vacant in a school district roiled by turmoil.

The Washington Post

Here in Jerusalem, hillside apartments now within sight of gun battles sit vacant and unsold.

The New York Times

The Thin House is a prototype for non-conforming narrow lots that sit vacant in New Haven.

Yale University

Many houses sit vacant, as owners or heirs live outside of El Salvador and continue to hold title.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the implications of vacancy when using the phrase "sit vacant". It often suggests a problem or opportunity related to property management, economic conditions, or urban planning.

Common error

Don't use "sit vacant" to describe something that is only temporarily unoccupied. This phrase implies a longer-term or indefinite state of vacancy, rather than a brief absence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sit vacant" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the state of a property or space that is unoccupied or unused. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatical and suitable for use. The provided examples show its application in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sit vacant" is a grammatically sound and widely used verb phrase that describes a state of being unoccupied, according to Ludwig AI. Its primary function is to inform and describe, often carrying implications related to economics or property management. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts, particularly news and academic settings. As Ludwig's examples show, "sit vacant" effectively conveys the state of being unoccupied, offering insights into various real-world scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remain unoccupied

Emphasizes the continued state of being not occupied.

stay empty

Highlights the lack of contents or occupants.

be unoccupied

Simple and direct statement of not being occupied.

lie unused

Focuses on the lack of utilization of a space or resource.

stand idle

Suggests a state of inactivity or non-operation.

be uninhabited

Specifically refers to a dwelling not being lived in.

go unused

Highlights the lack of utilization after a period of potential use.

become deserted

Indicates a previous state of occupancy followed by abandonment.

gather dust

Emphasizes the neglect and lack of activity over time.

be available

Suggests a space is free to be taken or used.

FAQs

How can I use "sit vacant" in a sentence?

You can use "sit vacant" to describe unoccupied properties. For example: "Many houses in the neighborhood "sit vacant" due to the economic downturn."

What are some alternatives to "sit vacant"?

Alternatives include "remain unoccupied", "stay empty", or "lie unused", depending on the context.

What does it mean when a building "sits vacant"?

When a building "sits vacant", it means that it is currently not occupied or in use. This can be due to various reasons, such as foreclosure, lack of tenants, or abandonment.

Is it better to say "the property is vacant" or "the property sits vacant"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "the property "sits vacant"" implies a more prolonged or noticeable state of vacancy. "The property is vacant" is a more general statement of its current status.