sufficient distance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sufficient distance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an adequate amount of space or separation between two objects or points, often in contexts like safety, measurement, or emotional boundaries. Example: "To ensure safety during the experiment, the researchers maintained a sufficient distance from the hazardous materials."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Seen from sufficient distance, the arc of invention is simple.

The New Yorker

Or have they achieved sufficient distance to reclaim this territory?

The New York Times

Finally, "Allow sufficient distance (i.e. three steps) before cutting in front of another".

The New York Times

It built sufficient distance between him and my moods to help tame the beast".

The New York Times - Books

Now she has sufficient distance from the past, she can see that things are probably as good as they get.

The Guardian - Film

But this time the drama was just a sufficient distance from a well-known reality to thoroughly confuse everybody.

The Guardian

"It's a challenge, no question about it," Mr. Kelly said, "to have something small enough to avoid detection but large enough to transmit a sufficient distance".

The New York Times

(The bill specifies only "sufficient distance," along with adult supervision of youths in the mill, leaving greater definition to regulations that would interpret the new law).

The New York Times

Some officers followed the homeless people into the surrounding neighborhood to ensure that they moved a sufficient distance away, she said.

The New York Times

That may not be a danger for ConAgra because its brands do not emphasize its corporate parent, thus giving them sufficient distance to stand on their own.

The New York Times

Since the start of February, Worcester have got within a point of both Leicester and Harlequins, but we're not yet good enough to put sufficient distance between ourselves and the opposition.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing spatial arrangements, use "sufficient distance" to convey that the space is adequate for a specific purpose, like safety or functionality.

Common error

Avoid using "sufficient distance" in overly casual or informal writing. Simpler terms like "enough space" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sufficient distance" functions as a pre-modifying adjective and noun combination. It describes the extent or degree of separation between two points or objects. Examples show it defining adequate space for safety, functionality or emotional detachment, as validated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sufficient distance" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes an adequate amount of separation. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its validity and common usage across diverse fields like science, news, and business. It serves to indicate that a separation is adequate for a specific purpose, whether for safety, functionality, or achieving a desired outcome. When using this phrase, be mindful of the context and consider simpler alternatives like "enough space" for informal writing. Ludwig can help ensure the phrase is used appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adequate separation

Focuses on the act of separating adequately, shifting the emphasis from the distance itself.

ample space

Emphasizes the abundance of space, rather than the adequacy of the distance.

proper spacing

Implies a specific arrangement or design where the distance is important for function or aesthetics.

safe clearance

Highlights the safety aspect of maintaining a certain distance.

requisite gap

Presents a more formal or technical tone, suggesting a mandatory separation.

necessary interval

Emphasizes the distance as a time-based separation or pause.

comfortable margin

Introduces a subjective element, implying the distance provides reassurance or ease.

reasonable buffer

Suggests that the distance acts as protection against potential problems.

specified range

Highlights a pre-defined or regulated distance for a specific purpose.

suitable length

Shifts the focus to the linear dimension of the separation.

FAQs

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

Use "sufficient distance" to indicate that something is far enough away for a specific reason, such as, "The turbines were placed at a "sufficient distance" from homes to minimize noise pollution."

What are some alternatives to "sufficient distance"?

You can use alternatives such as "adequate distance", "ample space", or "proper spacing" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "sufficient distance" in writing?

It's appropriate in technical, scientific, or formal contexts where precise measurement or safety considerations are important. For more casual writing, consider using simpler terms like "enough room".

Is there a difference between "adequate distance" and "sufficient distance"?

"Adequate distance" and "sufficient distance" are largely interchangeable, but "sufficient distance" may imply a higher degree of certainty that the space is enough for its purpose.