the sun was setting

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence "the sun was setting" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a scene, such as: "The sun was setting on the horizon, casting a golden hue over everything in its path."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The sun was setting.

The Economist

The sun was setting on the Hudson.

The New York Times

The sun was setting beyond the trees.

The New Yorker

They died as the sun was setting.

The New York Times

The sun was setting in the valley.

The New York Times

The sun was setting and the temperature had dropped considerably.

The New York Times - Travel

I landed in Kabul just as the sun was setting.

The New Yorker

The sun was setting, and the temperature was dropping.

The New York Times

The sun was setting, but his mood would not.

The New York Times

Upstream beyond the hills the sun was setting.

The New Yorker

The sun was setting on a nearly empty street.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the specific location and time of year to add detail and authenticity to your description. For instance, "The sun was setting over the ocean" or "The sun was setting late on a summer evening".

Common error

Avoid pairing "the sun was setting" with other overused phrases like "painting the sky" unless you can offer a fresh and unique perspective. Strive for originality to make your writing stand out.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the sun was setting" primarily functions as a descriptive element, setting the scene and providing context for the narrative. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It's used to establish time, create mood, and provide visual imagery.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the sun was setting" is a versatile and common phrase used to describe the end of the day, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves primarily as a descriptive element, setting the scene and evoking a range of emotions. With high frequency across various news and media sources, it demonstrates its widespread applicability in English writing. When using this phrase, consider the context and avoid clichés to ensure your writing remains fresh and engaging.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the sun dipped below the horizon

Provides a more visual and descriptive alternative.

sunset was occurring

Focuses on the process of the sunset rather than the state.

the sun began its descent

Highlights the start of the sun's downward movement.

dusk was approaching

Highlights the arrival of twilight rather than the sun's descent.

twilight was falling

Emphasizes the gentle descent of twilight, adding a serene touch.

evening was arriving

Shifts the focus to the beginning of evening, a broader timeframe.

night was drawing near

Highlights the approaching darkness, creating a sense of anticipation.

the close of day was upon us

Emphasizes the end of the day and its effect on those present.

day was ending

Focuses on the completion of the day rather than the visual spectacle.

golden hour commenced

Highlights the specific time of day characterized by soft, warm light.

FAQs

How can I use "the sun was setting" in a sentence?

You can use "the sun was setting" to describe a scene, such as: "The sun was setting, casting long shadows across the field" or "The sun was setting as they finished their work for the day".

What are some alternatives to "the sun was setting"?

Alternatives include phrases like "dusk was approaching", "twilight was falling", or "the sun dipped below the horizon", depending on the desired nuance.

Is it correct to say "the sun was set" instead of "the sun was setting"?

While "the sun was setting" describes an ongoing action, "the sun was set" is grammatically incorrect in this context. The correct phrasing to describe the sun going down is "the sun was setting".

What imagery is typically associated with "the sun was setting"?

"[T]he sun was setting" often evokes imagery of warmth, peace, closure, and the transition from day to night. It can also symbolize the end of a period or a significant change, depending on the context.