solid objects

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "solid objects" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to physical items that have a definite shape and volume, distinguishing them from liquids and gases. Example: "In physics, we often study the properties of solid objects to understand their behavior under different forces."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

TWO solid objects collided on June 22nd.

The Economist

Apparently solid objects have a tendency to wobble.

The New York Times

Slacklining is a balance sport, where you walk across a line tied between two solid objects.

The Guardian

He was still Josef Engressia then, born in Richmond, Va., and phones were solid objects.

The New York Times - Magazine

Such investigations may help engineers prevent seemingly solid objects from shaking themselves to bits.

The New York Times

Until now, controlling the conduction of heat through solid objects has been a tricky engineering challenge.

The Economist

Then 3D printers emerged to make solid objects by building up layers of material.

The Economist

Sound traveling in air is largely reflected from solid objects, including animals, with little energy transfer.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"They use a jet of water under very high pressure to cut solid objects," Mr. Carret explained.

The New York Times

She suggests the sculptural possibilities of thread and yarn by encasing solid objects in knitted or crocheted skins.

The New York Times - Arts

The technology works by building up layer upon layer of material – typically plastic – to construct complex solid objects.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing research methodologies, use "solid objects" to clearly differentiate physical materials from abstract concepts or data.

Common error

Avoid using "solid objects" metaphorically when referring to abstract ideas or concepts. Stick to its literal meaning to maintain clarity and precision in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "solid objects" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig confirms its use in describing physical entities with definite shape and volume. For example, "Space in the vicinity of Earth contains a great number of solid objects in a range of sizes."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Science

42%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "solid objects" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase referring to physical items with defined shape and volume. Ludwig confirms this assessment, noting its wide presence across diverse sources, especially in science and news. It serves to denote and categorize tangible items, distinguishing them from liquids, gases, or abstract concepts. While the phrase is appropriate across various registers, remember to avoid using it metaphorically to maintain clarity in your writing. Consider alternatives like "tangible items" or "physical items" depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

physical items

A more general term referring to items that occupy space.

real objects

Distinguishes the objects from virtual or imagined entities.

tangible items

Focuses on the physical, touchable nature of the objects.

firm materials

Emphasizes the rigidity and substance of the objects.

palpable things

Emphasizes the ability to be touched or felt.

concrete entities

Highlights the real, rather than abstract, existence of the objects.

substantial bodies

Highlights the significant size or mass of the objects.

three-dimensional forms

Specifically refers to objects with height, width, and depth.

sturdy objects

Emphasizes the robustness and durability of the objects.

stable objects

Focuses on the property of the objects to stay in the same state or condition.

FAQs

How can I use "solid objects" in a sentence?

You can use "solid objects" to describe physical things that have a definite shape and volume, for example, "The experiment involved manipulating various "solid objects" to test their properties".

What are some alternatives to "solid objects"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "tangible items", "physical items", or "concrete entities".

Is it correct to use "solid objects" in a metaphorical sense?

While you might encounter metaphorical uses, it's generally best to use "solid objects" literally to refer to physical entities to avoid confusion and maintain clarity.

What is the difference between "solid objects" and "liquids" or "gases"?

"Solid objects" maintain their shape and volume, whereas liquids take the shape of their container but maintain volume, and gases expand to fill any available space.