walk through metal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "walk through metal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is passing through a metal detector or a similar structure made of metal. Example: "As I approached the security checkpoint, I was instructed to walk through metal to ensure I wasn't carrying any prohibited items."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

We walk through metal detectors.

The New York Times - Arts

Attendees should expect to walk through metal detectors and for their bags to be scanned.

Columbia University

Demonstrators were forced to walk through metal detectors to get to the rally area.

The New York Times

When students were frisked and had to walk through metal detectors, it added doubt and suspicion.

The New York Times

There, they place their bags under scanners and walk through metal detectors.

The New York Times

The future members learned that they, unlike everyone else, do not have to walk through metal detectors.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

New measures are being used by police to search for knives using hand-held and walk-through metal detectors.

The Guardian

The Undetectable Firearms Act of 1988 makes it illegal to manufacture in the US any firearm that is not detectable by walk-through metal detectors.

The Guardian

Surveillance cameras were mounted inside and out, and Huffman's 1,370 students were periodically checked for weapons, both with handheld and walk-through metal detectors, administrators say.

The Washington Post

The system consists of commercial Walk-Through Metal Detector (WTMD) and a Giant Magneto-Resistive (GMR) sensor array has been designed and built.

Sensors and Actuators A: Physical

The plan now is that all passengers will "go through the whole-body imager instead of the walk-through metal detector," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing security protocols, ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to the act of passing through a metal detector or simply being in proximity to metallic structures. For example, "Passengers must "walk through metal" detectors at airport security checkpoints" is clearer than "The area required walking through metal."

Common error

Avoid generalizing the phrase "walk through metal" to mean all security procedures. It specifically refers to the act of passing through a metal detector. Instead of saying "The building requires you to "walk through metal" for safety", specify the measure more accurately: "The building requires passing through a metal detector for safety."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "walk through metal" functions as a verb phrase describing the action of passing through a metal detector or a metallic structure as part of a security check. Ludwig provides numerous examples where this phrase is used in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "walk through metal" commonly describes the act of passing through a metal detector, often in security contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage in news, media, and academic fields. Alternatives such as "pass through metal" or "go through a metal detector" offer similar meanings with varying levels of formality. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the purpose or device involved. While generally neutral, awareness of context is important for avoiding misinterpretations regarding the scope of security procedures.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pass through metal

Emphasizes the action of passing, similar to the original phrase but slightly more formal.

step through metal detection

Slightly more descriptive, emphasizing the physical act of stepping.

go through a metal detector

Specifies the device being passed through, adding more detail to the action.

walk past the metal detector

Focuses on the act of walking and the presence of a metal detector.

clear the metal detector

Focuses on successfully passing the metal detector without setting it off.

proceed through metal security

Indicates an orderly movement through metal security checks.

undergo metal screening

Highlights the process of being screened by metal detection technology, which is more formal.

be scanned for metal

Highlights the purpose of the process, which is to scan for metal objects.

be subjected to a metal scan

Emphasizes the involuntary nature of the security check.

traverse metal security

Uses a more sophisticated vocabulary to describe moving across a secured metal barrier.

FAQs

What does it mean to "walk through metal"?

To "walk through metal" typically refers to the act of passing through a metal detector, usually as part of a security screening process.

Where might you need to "walk through metal"?

You might need to "walk through metal" at airports, government buildings, schools, courthouses, and other locations where security screenings are conducted.

What is another way to say "walk through metal"?

Alternatives to "walk through metal" include "pass through metal", "go through a metal detector", or "clear the metal detector".

Is it always necessary to remove metal objects before you "walk through metal"?

Yes, it is generally required to remove metal objects such as keys, phones, and belts before you "walk through metal" to avoid setting off the alarm.