Is 'empty' a positive or negative word?

Usually it is neutral in simple physical use, but negative for feelings, promises, or efforts.

What is the difference between 'empty' and 'blank'?

'Empty' means nothing inside or nothing there. 'Blank' is used more for surfaces, forms, faces, or expressions.

Can I use 'empty' in business writing?

Yes, but it is common for reports, inventory, schedules, and results.

← Dictionary

empty

/ˈemp.ti/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

Empty means having nothing inside. It can also mean not full, not occupied, or without the usual feeling or meaning.

The bottle is empty.
The room looked empty at night.
Her words sounded empty.

verb

To empty something is to remove everything from it, or to become empty.

Please empty the bin.
He emptied his pockets onto the table.
The lake emptied into the sea.

Adinary Nuance

Empty is broader and more direct than words like 'blank' or 'vacant'. Use 'empty' for containers, rooms, feelings, or promises with no real value. 'Vacant' is more formal, and 'blank' often suggests a surface or expression with no marks or emotion.

In other languages

Vietnamese: trống rỗng
Spanish: vacío
Chinese: 空的
Japanese: 空の
Korean: 빈

Etymology

Old English emtig meant 'not occupied' or 'vacant'. It is related to old Germanic words for 'idle' or 'free of contents'.

Common phrases

empty roomempty stomachempty promiseempty-handed

Synonyms

vacant bare hollow void

Related words

full fill emptying nothing

Frequently asked questions

Is 'empty' a positive or negative word?: Usually it is neutral in simple physical use, but negative for feelings, promises, or efforts.
What is the difference between 'empty' and 'blank'?: 'Empty' means nothing inside or nothing there. 'Blank' is used more for surfaces, forms, faces, or expressions.
Can I use 'empty' in business writing?: Yes, but it is common for reports, inventory, schedules, and results.