a cyclical pattern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a cyclical pattern" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation, process, or phenomenon that repeats in a predictable manner over time. Example: "The seasons change in a cyclical pattern, with winter giving way to spring each year."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a cyclical pattern.

The New York Times

Exhaustion can have a cyclical pattern in ME.

The Guardian

These water pressure changes were accompanied by a cyclical pattern in tilt change.

Nature

During the winter, water pressure followed a cyclical pattern (Fig. 3).

Nature

But there are reasons for doubting such a cyclical pattern still exists in the medium of television.

Independent

Under natural conditions, most of the environmental variables that influence dormancy are interrelated in a cyclical pattern that is either circadian or annual.

Encyclopedia Britannica

MAPS: La Nia's Influence on Climate: La Nia is a cyclical pattern of abnormally cool surface water in the eastern Pacific.

The New York Times

We observed clear seasonal effects, with total abundance increasing during spring and a cyclical pattern in assemblage structure of the emerging benthos.

Journal of Sea Research

The Yankees' current supremacy is simply part of a cyclical pattern of alternating 10-year periods of attendance dominance (Mets 1964-75, Yankees 1976-83, Mets 1984-92, Yankees 1993-present).

The New York Times - Sports

The production process follows a cyclical pattern, with each cycle composed of two stages: a long stage (months to years) of increasing gas production and decreasing water production, followed by a reduction in the fluid withdrawal rate.

Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering

Unlike the adjacent circular smooth muscle, at rest the longitudinal smooth muscle may contract in a cyclical pattern, and intracellular recordings have revealed rhythmic depolarization-repolarization with a frequency of 2 to 3/min.85, 86 This cyclic electrical activity is abolished by nifedipine.86 The physiologic significance, if any, of this cyclical activity is unknown.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a cyclical pattern", ensure the context clearly indicates the elements or events that are recurring. Be specific about what constitutes the cycle.

Common error

Avoid assuming a pattern is cyclical without identifying the underlying causes or mechanisms that drive its recurrence. A perceived pattern may be random or influenced by other factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cyclical pattern" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the object or complement within a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in describing recurring sequences or phenomena. It specifies the type of pattern observed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

51%

News & Media

38%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a cyclical pattern" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term to describe events or processes that repeat in a predictable sequence, as confirmed by Ludwig. It's prevalent across various domains, particularly in science, news, and academia. While the phrase itself is straightforward, accurately identifying and interpreting the cyclical nature of a phenomenon is crucial. As the numerous examples from Ludwig illustrate, it is vital to specify the components and drivers of the cycle to ensure clear communication. Consider using synonyms like "recurring cycle" or "repeating sequence" for variety. In conclusion, remember to focus on what repeats and what forces drive the repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a recurring cycle

Focuses on the repetition of events or phases in a sequence.

a cyclic process

Frames the pattern as an ongoing process with distinct stages.

a repeating sequence

Highlights the ordered arrangement of elements that occur again and again.

a patterned repetition

Highlights the predictable and structured nature of the recurrence.

a rhythmic recurrence

Emphasizes the regularity and timing of the repeated events.

a recurrent phenomenon

Emphasizes the observable and repeated nature of the event.

a periodic oscillation

Suggests a back-and-forth movement or fluctuation over time.

a revolving sequence

Suggests a continuous, circular pattern or order.

a circulatory dynamic

Emphasizes the flow and interconnectedness within the repeating pattern.

a seasonal round

Specifically refers to patterns related to the seasons of the year.

FAQs

How can I use "a cyclical pattern" in a sentence?

You can use "a cyclical pattern" to describe phenomena that repeat regularly, such as "The economy often follows "a cyclical pattern" of expansion and contraction".

What are some alternatives to "a cyclical pattern"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a recurring cycle", "a repeating sequence", or "a rhythmic recurrence", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to describe something as "a cyclical pattern"?

No, ensure that the phenomenon genuinely repeats in a predictable manner. If the recurrence is irregular or influenced by too many unpredictable factors, other terms might be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "a cyclical pattern" and "a trend"?

"A cyclical pattern" implies a repeating sequence, whereas "a trend" /s/a+trend suggests a general direction or tendency that may not necessarily return to its starting point.