without legs

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "without legs" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that lacks legs, either literally or metaphorically, in various contexts. Example: "The chair was designed without legs to create a floating effect in the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She saw people without legs.

The New York Times

"People walking without legs.

The New York Times - Sports

Without legs, abuse, abuse, abuse.

The Guardian

There are so many people without legs.

The New York Times

For example, he was born without legs.

The New Yorker

I saw a child without legs.

The Guardian

They die without legs, without arms.

The New Yorker

Many people went to the hospitals without legs and hands".

The New York Times

"Some people were burning, and I saw some without legs".

The New York Times

"I'm sorry that she ended up without legs," he said.

The New York Times

He played three years of college football as a nose tackle without legs!

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "without legs" in descriptive writing, consider the context and whether a more specific term like "amputated legs" or "born without legs" would be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "without legs" metaphorically when a more precise and evocative figure of speech would be more effective. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "without legs" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It describes a state of lacking legs, whether due to congenital absence, amputation, or other causes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Sports

17%

Arts

12%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

12%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "without legs" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that effectively conveys the absence of legs. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and versatility. It appears most commonly in news, media, sports, and arts contexts, maintaining a generally neutral register. While alternatives like "legless" exist, "without legs" often provides a more respectful and precise description. When using this phrase, it's essential to consider the specific context and choose the most accurate and sensitive language to avoid potential misunderstandings or offense.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

legless

A more concise, single-word adjective describing the state of lacking legs.

lacking legs

A more formal and direct way of stating the absence of legs.

having no legs

A simple and straightforward way to express the absence of legs.

without lower extremities

A more technical or clinical term for lacking legs.

missing legs

Focuses on the absence or loss of legs, often implying a previous state of having them.

born without legs

Specifically describes a congenital condition of lacking legs.

amputated legs

Specifically refers to legs that have been surgically removed.

devoid of legs

Emphasizes the complete absence of legs.

incapable of walking

Focuses on the functional limitation resulting from the absence of legs.

unable to stand

Highlights the inability to stand due to the absence of legs.

FAQs

How can I describe someone who was born without legs?

You can say they were "born "without legs"" or use the term "congenital amputation" depending on the specific condition.

What is a more formal way to say "without legs"?

A more formal alternative is "lacking lower extremities" or "without lower limbs".

Is it appropriate to use "legless" instead of "without legs"?

"Legless" is a shorter and more informal term, but it can sometimes be considered insensitive depending on the context. Using ""without legs"" is generally safer and more respectful.

What's the difference between "without legs" and "amputated legs"?

"Without legs" is a general term, while "amputated legs" specifically refers to legs that have been surgically removed.