vast courtyard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "vast courtyard" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a large, open space typically found in front of a building or within a complex, often used for gatherings or events. Example: "The guests were welcomed into the vast courtyard, where they could enjoy the beautiful scenery and socialize."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Vast courtyard.

The New York Times

Its jewel is a vast courtyard framed by soaring arched entrances.

The New York Times

On either side are two rows of verandas surrounding a vast courtyard large enough to hold 10,000 people.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It's a joy to see Stratford's vast Courtyard Theatre packed to the rafters and liberally sprinkled with children who remain rapt throughout.

Independent

Empty for years and now dilapidated, the academy building is a designated landmark, enclosed within the vast courtyard of the Gothic-style Erasmus Hall High School, another landmark.

The New York Times

To the Editor: As an alumna, class of '63, I recall the vast courtyard around the original academy building as the site of our graduation ceremony.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

The temple area was located south of the huge ziggurat called Etemenanki; it measured 660 feet (200 m) on its longest side, and its three vast courtyards were surrounded by intricate chambers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Each apartment block had a vast enclosed courtyard with a giant swimming pool.

The New Yorker

It includes two boomerang-shaped buildings dressed in glass and European limestone, and a vast private courtyard with sculptures and water gardens.

The New York Times

The tulou usually tower four floors and have up to hundreds of rooms that open out onto a vast central courtyard, like the Colosseum.

The New York Times

One estate of about seven acres has a sprawling stone manor with some 12,000 square feet, a two-story library and a vast stone courtyard.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, follow "vast courtyard" with descriptive details about its features, such as the type of paving, surrounding architecture, or common uses.

Common error

Avoid using "vast" merely as an intensifier. Ensure the courtyard genuinely warrants the description of being exceptionally large to maintain the impact and credibility of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vast courtyard" functions primarily as a descriptive noun phrase. It combines the adjective "vast", which intensifies the size, with the noun "courtyard", creating a vivid image of a large, open space. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples from diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "vast courtyard" effectively combines an adjective of scale with a noun denoting an enclosed area, typically associated with grand or historical settings. Grammatically correct and frequently used across varied sources, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, it paints a vivid picture of size and grandeur. While versatile, it's important to ensure the description is fitting and the word "vast" is not overused. Related phrases like "spacious yard" or "immense quadrangle" can offer nuanced alternatives depending on the desired emphasis. As exemplified by the numerous examples provided by Ludwig, "vast courtyard" is most commonly found in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Formal & Business contexts, reinforcing its descriptive yet accessible nature.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spacious yard

Focuses on the openness and ample space of the yard, rather than its specific architectural features.

expansive patio

Highlights the paved outdoor area, emphasizing its size and potential for activities.

large enclosure

Emphasizes the enclosed nature and size of the space, suitable for containing something.

immense quadrangle

Specifically describes a four-sided, enclosed space, common in academic or institutional settings.

extensive plaza

Refers to a public open space in a city or town, highlighting its size and role as a gathering place.

broad forecourt

Describes the area in front of a building, emphasizing its width and grandeur.

sizeable atrium

Indicates a central open space within a building, often extending through multiple stories.

commodious compound

Stresses the spaciousness of a secured area, often used for residential or industrial purposes.

generous terrace

Highlights an elevated, flat outdoor area, emphasizing its ample space for relaxation or entertainment.

ample ground

Focuses on the quantity of land available, suggesting potential for development or use.

FAQs

How can I use "vast courtyard" in a sentence?

You can use "vast courtyard" to describe a large open space, such as "The ceremony took place in the vast courtyard of the palace."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "vast courtyard"?

Alternatives include "spacious yard", "expansive patio", or "immense quadrangle" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the term "vast courtyard"?

Use "vast courtyard" when you want to emphasize the size and grandeur of an open area, especially in historical or architectural contexts.

What's the difference between "vast courtyard" and "large patio"?

A "vast courtyard" suggests a larger, often enclosed area typically found in palaces or historical buildings, while a "large patio" refers to a paved outdoor area adjacent to a house, usually smaller in scale.