In range
Meaning
Within the effective or observable distance or scope where something can be reached, affected, or detected.
Origin
The term "range" itself stems from the Old French "rangier," meaning to set in a row or to arrange, evolving to describe the extent or sweep of something. The phrase "in range" most vividly solidified its meaning in contexts of warfare and hunting. For centuries, knowing whether an enemy, animal, or object was within the effective reach of a weapon—be it an arrow, a cannonball, or a bullet—was paramount. This critical determination of proximity and capability gave the phrase its direct and powerful connotation, signifying that a target was actionable and within striking distance, a concern as old as projectile weapons themselves and equally relevant to modern technology.
Examples
- The target is now in range, so the sniper can take the shot.
- We need to stay in range of the Wi-Fi signal to maintain our connection.