within the library

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "within the library" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate something that is located or happening inside the physical space of a library. Example: "The study group will meet within the library to discuss the assigned readings."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The room is part of a push within the library system toward making libraries friendlier to teenagers.

The New York Times

Some say Korkut hid the small volume within the library, simply misshelving it among the large collection of venerable tomes.

The New Yorker

But they wanted the prizes to go to people within the library system who are not librarians.

The New York Times

He pointed out that a Digital Futures group within the library is already at work on many of the problems pinpointed by the National Academy report.

The New York Times - Tech

Within the library itself, a forest of steelwork is securing the external structure before two massive stone window piers are removed for assessment.

The Guardian - Arts

He opposes the Muslim Brotherhood, the popular Islamic movement, and has resisted pressure to allow the creation of a mosque or prayer room within the library itself.

The New York Times

TinyMCE, for example, does an excellent job of producing the right markup, but much of the user interface for the editor is kept privately within the library, which made it difficult to augment the user experience we desired.

The Guardian

They claim the development, which reaches nine storeys at its highest point, will lower light levels within the library by as much as 80%, though developers say it will be far less.

The Guardian

Maybe the riskiest, most thought-provoking piece of conceptual art that anyone could create out of these found materials is the original card catalogue, enclosed in its own cabinets, sitting undisturbed somewhere within the library it once described.

The New Yorker

There are a few fragments of the reservoir's foundation within the library, but these are little visited; and certainly the miracle of fresh water has long since been taken for granted.

The New York Times

The history of the city is celebrated in old sepia photographs, wall-size topographical maps and reproduction manuscripts on display within the library and in a visitor center next to the library.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing activities or events happening in a library, consider if "within the library" is the most precise choice, or if alternatives like "in the library" or "at the library" might be more appropriate depending on the context.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "within the library" can sometimes sound overly formal, especially in casual conversation or less formal writing. In these situations, opting for "in the library" will be a preferable choice, making your language sound more natural and approachable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "within the library" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb to indicate location. It specifies that something exists or occurs inside the physical boundaries of the library. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "within the library" is a grammatically correct and frequently used prepositional phrase that specifies a location inside a library. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and common usage. While versatile, it leans towards a more neutral to formal register. Context is key, and in some instances, alternatives like "in the library" or "inside the library" may be more appropriate, depending on the desired level of formality. Remember to consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing when choosing between these options.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inside the library

Replaces "within" with "inside", a more common preposition, keeping the meaning identical.

in the library

Simplifies the phrase by using the more general preposition "in" instead of "within".

at the library

Suggests a more general location or activity related to the library, rather than specifically inside its physical structure.

within the confines of the library

Emphasizes the boundaries or limits of the library's physical space.

in the interior of the library

Replaces "within" with a more descriptive phrase emphasizing the internal space.

on the premises of the library

Shifts the focus to the library's property rather than the internal space.

inside the building of the library

Specifies that the location is inside the library building.

contained within the library

Highlights the idea of something being enclosed or included within the library's space.

located in the library

Indicates that something is situated or positioned in the library.

housed within the library

Suggests that the library provides a home or storage space for something.

FAQs

How can I use "within the library" in a sentence?

Use "within the library" to specify that something is located or occurs inside the physical space of a library. For example: "The quietest study spots are located "within the library"".

What can I say instead of "within the library"?

You can use alternatives such as "inside the library" or "in the library", depending on the context. These options are often more common and less formal.

Which is correct: "within the library" or "in the library"?

Both "within the library" and "in the library" are grammatically correct. "Within" implies enclosure or containment, while "in" is a more general preposition. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "within the library" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, "within the library" can sound somewhat formal in everyday conversation. Using "in the library" is generally more natural and appropriate for informal contexts.