strait

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "strait" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to mean a narrow passage of water connecting two larger bodies of water, such as the Strait of Gibraltar which connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. It can also be used more generally to mean a narrow opening, route, or passage. Example sentence: The sailors navigated the strait with caution, mindful of the treacherous rocks beneath the surface.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

Plaza de España 16, [phone], lacasadelcalifa.com, closed January, doubles from €80 Wallpaper House and Boston House, La Peña, Tarifa You'll appreciate how wild and elemental this coast is after a week in one of these two super-private, prefabricated open-plan beach houses high above the strait of Gibraltar.

The Guardian - Travel

The taxman cometh Speaking across the strait As good as it gets?

The Economist

The ship was released on May 7th, but the incident prompted America to deploy warships to watch over American-flagged vessels entering the strait, a practice since stopped.Iranian ships have also shadow-boxed with American and Arab forces around the busy Bab al-Mandab, the strait leading into the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, through which around 10% of all sea trade passes.

The Economist

Tangle of the isle A spat across the strait Drugs?

The Economist

The forces across the strait Laos and the mysterious bombs Kashmir's bloody day ReprintsLaotians whisper over coffee about who they believe is behind the explosions.

The Economist

To turn a profit they need the well-stocked waters across the strait, little fished during Sri Lanka's civil war, from 1983-2009.In thisectionon Inside the cult of Kim Keeping the doctor away Intimations of mortality Attaboy Trawling for trouble Grave concerns Reprints Related topics Tamil Nadu Sri Lanka Politics India World politicsYet Indians are furious, too.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

"Even your boss, strait-laced, hatchet-faced Mr George Lowery, why even he can smell the rancid, pungent scent of sex all over you," he barks at her during one scene.

The Guardian - Film

In a less-observed border relaxation, it will become much easier for Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan as the Chinese authorities make a concerted effort to improve cross-strait ties.

The Guardian

We only see her in home-video footage and in Sarah's interpretation of what a strait-laced woman is".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The visa process for mainland Chinese visitors to Taiwan will be streamlined in an effort to bolster cross-strait ties Africa Botswana, home to a third of the global elephant population, bans commercial hunting amid growing concerns about the decline in wildlife species.

The Guardian

Thousands of people joined demonstrations in support, many of them brandishing sunflowers (see picture): a rebuke to the murkiness of cross-strait negotiations.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a body of water, ensure you're using "strait". When describing a difficult situation, use the plural form, "straits".

Common error

Avoid using "straight" when you mean "strait". "Straight" refers to a line or direction, while "strait" refers to a narrow waterway or a difficult situation. For example, "the Strait of Gibraltar" not "the Straight of Gibraltar".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "strait" is a noun, referring to a narrow passage of water. It can also function as an adjective describing something narrow or restricted, and, less commonly, as an adverb. Ludwig AI confirms that "strait" is correct and used in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "strait" is commonly used to describe a narrow waterway connecting two larger bodies of water or, in its plural form, a difficult situation. It is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, "strait" maintains a neutral register suitable for factual and descriptive contexts. When writing, remember to differentiate "strait" from "straight" to avoid confusion. Whether referencing the "Strait of Gibraltar" or being in "dire straits", using the term correctly enhances clarity and precision. Ludwig provides valuable examples to solidify understanding and application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dire straits

Intensifies the severity of a difficult situation.

narrow channel

Focuses on the geographical aspect, emphasizing the narrowness of the waterway.

narrow passage

Similar to narrow channel, but can apply to non-water features.

restricted passage

Similar to narrow passage, highlights the limitations.

confined space

Highlights the limited area or passage.

waterway

Refers to a navigable body of water, related to the geographical meaning of "strait".

difficult situation

Emphasizes the challenging circumstances implied when "straits" is used in the plural.

challenging circumstances

A more formal way to describe difficulties.

tight spot

An informal way of referring to a difficult or problematic situation.

difficulties

A general term for problems or challenges.

FAQs

How to use "strait" in a sentence?

Use "strait" to describe a narrow body of water connecting two larger bodies of water, like "The Strait of Magellan". You can also use "straits" (plural) to describe a difficult or troublesome situation, such as "in dire straits".

What can I say instead of "dire straits"?

You can use alternatives like "difficult situation", "tight spot", or "challenging circumstances" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "strait" or "straight"?

The correct word depends on the context. Use "strait" for a narrow waterway or a difficult situation. Use "straight" to indicate a line, direction, or orientation. For example, "the Strait of Hormuz" versus "a straight line".

What's the difference between "strait" and "channel"?

Both "strait" and "channel" refer to waterways. A "strait" is typically a naturally formed narrow passage connecting two larger bodies of water. A "channel" can be natural or man-made and may refer to a wider or deeper passage. Also compare it with "narrow channel".