the anteroom

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the anteroom" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a small room or space that serves as an entrance or waiting area to a larger room or area. Example: "Guests were asked to wait in the anteroom before being escorted into the main conference hall."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The anteroom was "full".

The New Yorker

Your four o'clock appointment waits in the anteroom.

The New Yorker

(She had the grace to answer in the anteroom).

The New York Times - Food

The following morning Caesar waited in the anteroom, humming a song from the Music Box Review.

The New Yorker

Afterward, the party returned to the anteroom for after-dinner drinks.

The New York Times

He arrived in the anteroom outside the President's office before Diem's first appointment.

The New Yorker

Dick Cheney was almost a co-president.The vice-presidency is the anteroom to the Oval Office.

The Economist

Ten girls waited in the anteroom, ready to provide the test.

The New Yorker

Floral bouquets from fans nationwide piled up in the anteroom of her first-floor office.

The New York Times

The village's computer, obtained through the Swaminathan Foundation, is in the anteroom of his home.

The New York Times

Then again, this state may be "merely the anteroom to oblivion".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a room with a specific purpose or style, consider the context, for example, in historical fiction, using "the anteroom" can give your writing an accurate tone.

Common error

While "the anteroom" is a correct term, avoid using it in overly casual settings where simpler terms like "waiting room" or "lobby" would be more appropriate. Overusing formal terms can make your writing sound stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the anteroom" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It identifies a specific type of room, as seen in Ludwig examples where it describes a waiting or entrance area. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the anteroom" is a noun phrase that correctly identifies a waiting or entrance area, confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its usage is prevalent in news, media, and scientific contexts. While grammatically sound, simpler alternatives may suit casual settings better. Related phrases include "waiting room", "lobby", and "foyer". The phrase adds a touch of formality and specificity, making it well-suited for architectural or historical writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the waiting room

Focuses specifically on the function of waiting before entering another room.

the entrance hall

Emphasizes the role as the initial point of entry.

the lobby

A more general term for a large entrance or reception area.

the foyer

Similar to lobby, often used for theaters or grand buildings.

the vestibule

Highlights a small enclosed area at the entrance.

the reception area

Focuses on the area where visitors are received.

the entryway

A simple and direct term for an entrance.

the threshold

Implies the point of entering, rather than a room.

the threshold

Emphasizes the boundary to be crossed before entering the room.

the portal

A more figurative term, suggesting a grand or significant entrance.

FAQs

What is the meaning of "the anteroom"?

The term "the anteroom" refers to a room that serves as an entrance or waiting area to another room.

What's a good alternative to "the anteroom"?

Alternatives include "the waiting room", "the lobby", or "the foyer", depending on the context.

In what contexts is "the anteroom" most appropriate?

"The anteroom" is suitable in formal or historical contexts when describing an entrance or waiting area.

Is "the anteroom" a commonly used phrase?

Yes, "the anteroom" is a well-recognized and used term, although alternatives like "waiting room" may be more common in everyday conversation.