The phrase "in spitting distance" is commonly used to describe a close proximity to something or someone. "Spitting" here means "to expel saliva forcefully from one's mouth," and "distance" refers to the amount of space between two things. The word "spitting" is pronounced as /ˈspɪtɪŋ/, with stress on the first syllable, while "distance" is pronounced as /ˈdɪstəns/, with stress on the second syllable. Together, they form the phrase /ɪn ˈspɪtɪŋ ˈdɪstəns/, with stress on the second syllable of "spitting" and the first syllable of "distance."
The phrase "in spitting distance" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a close proximity between two objects or locations. It implies that the distance between them is so short that one could theoretically spit and reach the other object or place. This idiomatic phrase is typically used to convey the idea of extreme closeness or nearness, often in a figurative sense rather than a literal one.
The term "in spitting distance" can be applied to describe a variety of situations. It can be used to refer to physical distances, such as when two buildings or landmarks are very close to each other. For instance, one might say, "The grocery store is in spitting distance of my house," meaning that the distance between the two is extremely short.
However, the phrase is more commonly used metaphorically to express the nearness of an event, goal, or achievement. For example, one might say, "He is in spitting distance of breaking the world record," indicating that the person is very close to achieving a landmark accomplishment.
Overall, "in spitting distance" is a colorful and expressive phrase that encapsulates the notion of extreme closeness or proximity between two entities, be it in physical distance or metaphorical achievement.