a late spurt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a late spurt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden increase or burst of activity or performance that occurs later than expected. Example: "The athlete showed a late spurt of speed in the final lap, securing his victory."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Until 1988, growth was still quite slow; a late spurt, of 7.6% a year, between 1988 and 1991, flattered the average.

The Economist

Camby was visibly hobbling, and Van Gundy saved him for a late spurt.

The New York Times - Sports

It's entirely possible Labour might make a late spurt — there are signs in some of the polls this is already happening.

The New Yorker

A late spurt of momentum for Andrey Zvyagintsev's Leviathan was only enough, in the end, to secure it the best screenplay award.

The Guardian - Film

Only a late spurt by Arizona State prevented the Wildcats from recording their most one-sided road victory ever in the series.

The New York Times - Sports

The Liberty missed 16 of its first 21 shots in the game before using a late spurt to take a 23-22 haleadme lead.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Williams hit a 3-pointer and a shot in the lane during Duke's late spurt.

The New York Times - Sports

Beasley scored 14 of his 22 points in the final period, and his late spurt gave the Heat a 6-point lead.

The New York Times

A late growth spurt, construction work and a dedicated weightlifting regimen have wrought a football metamorphosis.

The New York Times

With its leading scorer, Meighan Simmons, struggling, Tennessee (19-2, 7-0 Southeastern Conference) used a late 14-2 spurtoto pull away.

The New York Times - Sports

"In high school, my dad asked me about Butler," said Hayward, who was not highly recruited until a late growth spurt.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a late spurt", ensure the context clearly indicates what is experiencing the sudden increase. For instance, specify if it's "a late spurt" in economic growth, athletic performance, or campaign momentum.

Common error

Avoid attributing a "late spurt" to superficial factors without deeper analysis. A "late spurt" may seem spontaneous, but often results from accumulated efforts or underlying conditions, such as shifts in consumer behavior or strategic adjustments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a late spurt" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It typically describes a sudden burst or increase in activity, growth, or progress that occurs towards the end of a period or process. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Sports

20%

Lifestyle

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a late spurt" is a noun phrase used to describe a sudden burst or increase near the end of a period or process. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It is commonly found in news and media, as well as sports contexts, to describe unexpected increases in various metrics. Consider alternatives like "a final surge" or "a last-minute rally" to add nuance or variety to your writing. Pay attention to the underlying causes when using this phrase, and ensure that the context clearly specifies what is experiencing the "late spurt".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a final surge

Emphasizes the intensity and suddenness of the final burst, similar to a wave.

a last-minute rally

Highlights the recovery aspect and the timing being very close to the end.

a late surge

Focuses on the upward movement or increase in activity that happens belatedly.

a final push

Emphasizes the effort exerted at the end to achieve a goal.

a late upswing

Indicates an improvement or rise that occurs towards the end.

an end-of-period burst

More descriptive, specifying the timing and the sudden release of energy.

a closing stretch

Suggests a sustained effort in the final phase of an event or activity.

a final flourish

Implies a stylish or impressive burst of activity at the end.

a late blooming

Describes something achieving success or maturity later than expected.

a rear-guard action

Suggests a defensive effort to protect gains made earlier.

FAQs

How can I use "a late spurt" in a sentence?

You can use "a late spurt" to describe a sudden increase or burst of activity, growth, or progress that occurs near the end of a process or period. For example, "The company experienced "a late spurt" in sales due to a viral marketing campaign."

What's the difference between "a late spurt" and "a late surge"?

Both phrases refer to a sudden increase near the end, but "a late surge" often implies a more powerful and sustained increase, whereas ""a late spurt"" might suggest a shorter, more intense burst.

What can I say instead of "a late spurt"?

You can use alternatives like "a final surge", "a last-minute rally", or "a late upswing" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "a late spurt" in a formal context?

Yes, ""a late spurt"" is generally acceptable in formal contexts, particularly in business and news reporting, to describe increases in activity or performance. However, consider whether a more precise or technical term might be more appropriate.