In a vacuum
prepositional phrase
Without considering the impact or influence of external factors.
You cannot make this decision in a vacuum, you have to consider the effect on everyone involved.
Often appears as...
- make decisions in a vacuum
- exist in a vacuum
Usage tips
Idiomatic
prepositional phrase
In a perfect and frictionless environment with no external influences.
In a vacuum, this object would fall at the same rate as a feather.
Often appears as...
- fall in a vacuum
- exist in a vacuum
Usage tips
Technical
prepositional phrase
In a situation lacking in substance, interest or excitement.
This town is a cultural vacuum.
Often appears as...
- live in a vacuum
- operate in a vacuum
prepositional phrase
Without considering the impact or influence of external factors.
You cannot make this decision in a vacuum, you have to consider the effect on everyone involved.
Often appears as...
- make decisions in a vacuum
- exist in a vacuum
Usage tips
Idiomatic
prepositional phrase
In a perfect and frictionless environment with no external influences.
In a vacuum, this object would fall at the same rate as a feather.
Often appears as...
- fall in a vacuum
- exist in a vacuum
Usage tips
Technical
prepositional phrase
In a situation lacking in substance, interest or excitement.
This town is a cultural vacuum.
Often appears as...
- live in a vacuum
- operate in a vacuum
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Real-world Context
Used to suggest someone is ignoring real-life situations or practical considerations.
Leaders should not develop policies in a vacuum, ignoring public opinion.
Pro Tip 2/3Metaphorical Use
Often used metaphorically to express isolation from external factors or isolation.
Trying to learn a language in a vacuum without speaking to native speakers is ineffective.
Pro Tip 3/3Emphasizing Consequences
Highlights the importance of consequences when making a decision or judgment.
Selecting a course in a vacuum could lead to regret if job prospects aren't considered.
Pro Tip 1/3Real-world Context
Used to suggest someone is ignoring real-life situations or practical considerations.
Leaders should not develop policies in a vacuum, ignoring public opinion.
Pro Tip 2/3Metaphorical Use
Often used metaphorically to express isolation from external factors or isolation.
Trying to learn a language in a vacuum without speaking to native speakers is ineffective.
Pro Tip 3/3Emphasizing Consequences
Highlights the importance of consequences when making a decision or judgment.
Selecting a course in a vacuum could lead to regret if job prospects aren't considered.
Pro Tip 1/3Real-world Context
Used to suggest someone is ignoring real-life situations or practical considerations.
Leaders should not develop policies in a vacuum, ignoring public opinion.
Pro Tip 2/3Metaphorical Use
Often used metaphorically to express isolation from external factors or isolation.
Trying to learn a language in a vacuum without speaking to native speakers is ineffective.
Pro Tip 3/3Emphasizing Consequences
Highlights the importance of consequences when making a decision or judgment.
Selecting a course in a vacuum could lead to regret if job prospects aren't considered.
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