a big spread

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a big spread" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a large variety or range of items, often in contexts like food, investment, or differences in data. Example: "At the buffet, there was a big spread of dishes, including appetizers, main courses, and desserts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Having a big spread causes some unhappiness.

Harvard Business Review

There's a big spread right now between the landlord-offered space and the tenant-offered space".

The New York Times

I had just won the Junior Olympics and I had a big spread in The New York Mirror.

The New York Times

Ticket prices, for one thing, have a big spread, starting at a modest $25 and topping out at $250.

The New York Times - Arts

With a half-century's worth of work, mostly drawings, it's a big spread of small, detailed things, many requiring reading.

The New York Times - Arts

"There's a big spread of experience," Mr. Barber said when asked about the driving prowess of those who have joined.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

But it's such a big, spread-out metropolis that you won't even notice them unless you spend time only at the "must-see" tourist sites.

The New York Times

Open a few oysters and add some other cured fish for a bigger spread.

Independent

There seems to be a bigger spread between estimates the farther the distance driven.

The New York Times

Girls are less inclined to take risks and often have more choice at A-level because they have a bigger spread of good GCSEs".

The Guardian

And he moved from Norwalk to a bigger spread in Wilton (where, he was "pretty upset" to find, painters later chipped his crystal Pulitzer).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something with variety, consider using "a big spread" to convey a sense of abundance and comprehensiveness. For instance, "The conference offered a big spread of workshops covering various topics."

Common error

While versatile, avoid overusing "a big spread" in highly formal or technical writing. Opt for more precise language like "extensive range" or "comprehensive assortment" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big spread" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a direct object or subject complement. It describes a large and varied assortment of items. Ludwig confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

18%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Science

4%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a big spread" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe a large and varied assortment of items. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media contexts. While adaptable, it's important to consider the formality of your writing and opt for more precise alternatives in highly formal settings. Related phrases include "a wide array" and "an extensive range". When aiming to express abundance or comprehensiveness, consider using "a big spread" to effectively convey the scale and variety of the subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a wide array

This alternative focuses on the variety within the collection, similar to emphasizing the breadth of "a big spread".

a large selection

This emphasizes the number of options available, akin to the abundance implied by "a big spread".

an extensive range

This highlights the scope and reach of what's being presented, comparable to the comprehensive nature of "a big spread".

a comprehensive assortment

This suggests a thorough and complete collection, similar to the completeness suggested by "a big spread".

a generous display

This emphasizes the abundance and visual presentation, echoing the generous nature of "a big spread".

a lavish exhibition

This conveys a sense of opulence and grandeur in the presentation, similar to the impressiveness of "a big spread".

a substantial variety

Focuses on the significant diversity present, akin to highlighting the broad scope of "a big spread".

an ample presentation

Highlights the sufficient and plentiful nature of the offering, reflecting the richness of "a big spread".

a considerable collection

This emphasizes the significant size and scope of the collection, comparable to the extensiveness of "a big spread".

a full complement

This suggests a complete and comprehensive offering, similar to the completeness implied by "a big spread".

FAQs

How can I use "a big spread" in a sentence?

You can use "a big spread" to describe a large variety of something, such as food, data, or options. For example, "The buffet had "a big spread" of desserts" or "There's "a big spread" in the survey results".

What's a more formal alternative to "a big spread"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "extensive range", "wide variety", or "comprehensive selection".

Is it appropriate to use "a big spread" in academic writing?

While generally acceptable, "a big spread" might be too informal for certain academic contexts. Evaluate your audience and the overall tone of your writing, and consider more formal alternatives like "significant variation" or "broad spectrum".

What does "a big spread" typically refer to?

"A big spread" often refers to a large and varied assortment of items, particularly food, but can also describe differences in data or a wide range of options. Its meaning is similar to having "a wide array" or "an extensive collection".