six months apart

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "six months apart" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe two events, occurrences, or dates that are separated by a duration of six months. Example: "The twins were born six months apart, making their age difference quite unique."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

BORN ONLY SIX months apart, the two could not be more different in terms of personality and worldview.

The New York Times - Magazine

Within each of eight Southern California communities, up to 29 locations were sampled for rotating, month-long integrated periods at two different times of the year, six months apart, from Nov 2008 through Dec 2009.

Atmospheric Environment

Afterwards boys, who have now become men, are returned to their parents after six months apart.

The Guardian - Travel

They were born in the same year, in the same country, just six months apart.

The Guardian - Sport

THE Clinton administration has experienced two defining moments in Africa, barely six months apart.

The New York Times

Given how the seasons work, the relevant figures for each pole always occur about six months apart.

The New York Times

Because the nodes are 180° apart, eclipses occur in the so-called eclipse seasons, six months apart.

Encyclopedia Britannica

My own "faux twins" (six months apart, one adopted, one biological) will be in the same classroom this year after three years apart in preschool.

The New York Times

Both graduates of law and in their mid-40s, born only six months apart, they are also the youngest candidates in the race.

The Guardian

Even when we didn't see one another, when we were six months apart and only spoke on the telephone, nothing had changed.

The Guardian - Books

Another woman, Sarah Vilendrer, offered her account in eight seconds — "I had an abortion, and then I had a second one, and they were six months apart, and I would have another one today" — and then gave the tiniest shrug.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing events that occur at regular intervals, use "six months apart" to clearly communicate the duration between them. For example, "The company conducted performance reviews every "six months apart" to track employee progress effectively."

Common error

Avoid using "six months apart" when the exact dates or durations are unclear. Ensure the context explicitly indicates a consistent six-month interval, rather than an approximate or variable period. For instance, if the interval fluctuates, use "approximately six months apart" or "around six months apart".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "six months apart" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the temporal separation between two events or occurrences. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, highlighting its flexibility and widespread applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "six months apart" is a versatile and grammatically sound adverbial phrase used to indicate a temporal separation of six months between two events. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its common usage across diverse fields, from scientific research to news reporting. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and widely applicable in various contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly indicates a consistent six-month interval to maintain clarity. Alternatives such as "separated by six months" or "with a six-month interval" can be employed for stylistic variation. By following these guidelines, you can effectively incorporate the phrase "six months apart" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

six months' difference

Highlights the difference in time between events.

separated by six months

Emphasizes the separation more directly than the original phrase.

six months in between

Highlights that the six-month period is situated between two events.

with a six-month interval

Uses a more formal term, "interval", to denote the period between events.

occurring half a year apart

Replaces "six months" with "half a year", providing a different perspective on the time frame.

six-month gap

Uses the noun "gap" to indicate the period of separation.

at a six-month distance

Emphasizes the temporal distance between two points.

spanning six months

Focuses on the duration that separates the two events.

six months elapsed between

Highlights the passing of time between events.

divided by six months

Uses the word "divided" to express that there is six months between events.

FAQs

How can I use "six months apart" in a sentence?

Use "six months apart" to describe two events or periods that are separated by six months. For example, "The studies were conducted "six months apart" to account for seasonal variations."

What are some alternatives to "six months apart"?

You can use phrases like "separated by six months", "with a six-month interval", or "occurring half a year apart" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "6 months apart" instead of "six months apart"?

Yes, "6 months apart" is acceptable, especially in informal contexts or when space is limited. However, "six months apart" is generally preferred in formal writing.

What's the difference between "six months apart" and "every six months"?

"Six months apart" describes the distance between two specific events. "Every six months" implies a recurring event happening at six-month intervals. For example, "The meetings were "six months apart"" refers to two specific meetings, while "The meetings are held "every six months"" indicates a regular schedule.