waiting for death

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "waiting for death" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing mortality, existential themes, or in literary works. Example: "In his final days, he found himself waiting for death, reflecting on a life well-lived."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

Others are waiting for death".

The New York Times

Waiting for death.

The Guardian - Books

We feel we are waiting for death.

The Guardian

Oh, but it was so boring waiting for death!

The New Yorker

Retirement isn't about sitting back and waiting for death.

The New York Times

We are all, when push comes to shove, just waiting for death.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

They wait for death in their houses, stripped of everything.

Columbia University

It waited for death to dispel the sorrows of life.

The New York Times - Magazine

Not activities that take up time while you wait for death.

The New York Times

Instead, you just cower under the plastic and wait for death.

The Washington Post

You don't have to sit around and wait for death".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "waiting for death" to convey a sense of anticipation or resignation in the face of mortality. Ensure the context clearly indicates whether the waiting is literal (e.g., a person with a terminal illness) or figurative (e.g., a project nearing its end).

Common error

While "waiting for death" can be powerful, overuse can make your writing melodramatic. Consider the impact and whether a more subtle phrase might better suit your tone. Avoid using the phrase when other phrases can be used instead such as "awaiting death".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "waiting for death" functions primarily as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun within a sentence. It describes the state of anticipating or expecting death. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

20%

Huffington Post

16%

Less common in

Science

4%

Vice

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "waiting for death" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as a gerund phrase, describing the anticipation of death. While common in News & Media and academic contexts, its usage requires sensitivity, as it carries significant emotional weight. Consider alternative phrases like "facing mortality" or "nearing the end" to adjust the tone. Avoid overuse to prevent melodrama. Its versatility allows application in both literal and figurative contexts, portraying situations nearing their conclusion. Overall, it is a powerful phrase that should be wielded with consideration and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

awaiting death

Replaces the gerund form with a present participle, emphasizing the action of awaiting.

expecting to die

Focuses on the expectation of death, rather than the act of waiting.

facing mortality

Shifts the focus to the confrontation with one's mortality.

nearing the end

Emphasizes the proximity to the end of life.

approaching one's demise

Uses a more formal term for death, focusing on the finality.

contemplating the afterlife

Focuses on thoughts and reflections about what comes after death.

preparing to meet one's maker

Introduces a religious connotation, referring to God as the creator.

on death row

Specifically refers to the situation of prisoners awaiting execution.

in hospice care

Indicates a specific setting and situation for those nearing death.

at the end of life

A broader phrase referring to the final stages of existence.

FAQs

What does "waiting for death" mean in a figurative sense?

Figuratively, "waiting for death" can describe a situation or entity that is nearing its end or has no prospect of recovery. For example, a dying industry might be described as "waiting for death".

Are there less direct ways to express the idea of "waiting for death"?

Yes, phrases like "facing mortality" or "nearing the end" can convey a similar meaning with less intensity, depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "waiting for death" in all contexts?

No, it's a sensitive phrase. Consider your audience and the context. In some situations, it may be more appropriate to use softer language such as "approaching one's demise".

What's the difference between "waiting for death" and "awaiting death"?

The phrases are very similar. "Awaiting death" is slightly more formal, while "waiting for death" is more common in everyday language. Both imply an expectation of death.