valance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "valance" is not correct in this context; did you mean "valence"? If you meant "valence," it can be used in written English when discussing chemistry, psychology, or linguistics, referring to the capacity of an atom to bond or the emotional value of a stimulus.
Example: "In chemistry, the valence of an element determines how many bonds it can form with other elements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

More valance ruffled dresses, more lace and feather gowns, more topiary tulle poufs shaved to cradle the models' buttocks and back, as if she'd parked her rear end in a net urinal.

Independent

Another, worthier, option is a retractable tow-hook which disappears under the rear valance, and you can have a panoramic glass roof.

Independent

The red linen and white valance was obviously supposed to be festive, but juxtaposed with the sign looks kind of seedy and louche, suggesting santa's sack might be filled with more than jus - NO, I'll leave the jokes to you.

Independent

The edges may overhang and in some cases are decorated with incised work or a fabric valance.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Nevertheless, you can hire companies now to alter what comes up when people Google you, a fact that speaks to the public's anxiety about the valance accorded search results.

The New York Times

Despite sustaining some damage to the Porsche's front valance from an armadillo strike and a loose truck tire tread – a gator – the Goneos brothers finished the race, coming in third out of three in the Vintage Foreign class.

The New York Times

They appear to offer aero benefits and resemble the air curtain in front valance that smoothes air flow over front wheels.

The New York Times

These lower air vents are echoed in striking angled exit shapes along the rear valance, which will probably be toned down in the production model.

The New York Times

For Rayna Jaymes's bed, Mr. Knipp's team imitated that of Ms. Roberts, which he described as having "a French-style bed crown with a draped back wall, swagged side panels and a button-finished Austrian valance".

The New York Times

Several of Ford's Westerns with Wayne became classics, notably "The Searchers" (1956, pictured) and "The Man who Shot Liberty Valance" (1962), as did an earlier film, "Red River" (1948), directed by Howard Hawks.

The Economist

He also gave memorable performances in Spartacus (1960) and Once Upon a Time in the West (1968), as well as the Ford-directed films Sergeant Rutledge (1960), Two Rode Together (1961), and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing interior design, specify the type of "valance" (e.g., window, bed) to avoid ambiguity. Using descriptive adjectives before "valance", such as 'linen' or 'pleated', will enhance clarity and paint a more vivid picture for the reader.

Common error

Be careful not to confuse "valance", a decorative piece of fabric or wood, with "valence", a term used in chemistry to describe the bonding capacity of an atom. Proofread your work to ensure the correct term is used in the appropriate context.

Linguistic Context

Noun. The primary grammatical function of "valance" is to act as a noun, referring to a decorative piece of fabric or wood used to conceal or embellish. This is evident in Ludwig's examples, where "valance" functions as a noun within sentences describing home decor and automotive design.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Encyclopedias

18%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "valance" is a grammatically correct noun that refers to a decorative piece, typically of fabric or wood, used to conceal or embellish windows, beds, or vehicles. Ludwig's analysis, based on numerous real-world examples, reveals that it's most commonly used in news media and encyclopedia contexts. While the word itself is straightforward, it’s important to differentiate it from the similarly spelled "valence" to avoid errors. By understanding its varied applications and following the writing guidance provided, you can confidently and accurately use "valance" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pelmet board

Highlights the rigid structure used to conceal curtain fixtures.

window treatment

Focuses on the functional aspect of covering a window.

cornice board

Focuses on the architectural aspect of a decorative molding.

curtain heading

Emphasizes the top part of a curtain, specifically where it's attached.

decorative border

Highlights the ornamental nature of an edge or trim.

decorative trim

Broadly refers to any ornamental addition.

bed skirt

Specifically refers to the fabric covering the base of a bed.

concealing strip

Emphasizes the function of hiding something from view.

fascia board

Describes a horizontal board that covers the ends of rafters.

aesthetics

Focuses on the pleasing appearance of something, broadly.

FAQs

How is "valance" used in interior design?

In interior design, a "valance" is a decorative heading or border, often made of fabric or wood, used to conceal curtain rods or add a stylish finish to windows and beds. For example, a window "window treatment" or a "bed skirt" can feature a valance.

What are the different types of "valance"?

There are several types of "valance", including window valances (used to decorate windows), bed valances (also known as bed skirts, used to cover the bed frame), and pelmet valances (rigid structures often made of wood). Each serves a slightly different decorative and functional purpose.

What is the purpose of a "valance"?

A "valance" primarily serves a decorative purpose, adding a finishing touch to windows or beds. It can also be functional, concealing hardware like curtain rods or bed frames, providing a neater and more polished appearance.

What materials are commonly used to make a "valance"?

"Valances" can be made from a variety of materials, including fabrics like cotton, linen, silk, and velvet. Rigid valances, such as pelmets or "cornice boards", are often made of wood or MDF (medium-density fiberboard).