a period of discovery

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a period of discovery" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a time frame during which exploration, learning, or new insights occur. Example: "The Renaissance was a period of discovery that transformed art and science in Europe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

On the contrary, action to slow global warming could result in a period of "discovery, innovation and investment".

The Guardian - Business

The British period in Indian history was primarily a period of discovery of the ancient tradition (e.g., the two histories by Radhakrishnan, scholar and president of India from 1962 to 1967, and S.N. Dasgupta) and of comparison and synthesis of Indian philosophy with the philosophical ideas from the West.

Britannica

Prices are now so high - and you have a collecting boom". The years between the two shows became a period of discovery for collectors, according to Robert K. Brown and Susan Reinhold, co-owners of Reinhold-Brown, a New York gallery specializing in posters and graphics.

The New York Times - Arts

"We find that a lot of people become familiar with us through extended stays, like a period of discovery, and then end up coming back" for shorter stays, said Bill Duncan, the head of brand management for Hilton's Homewood Suites, which has more than 300 properties in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The New York Times

"We seem to be in a period of discovery for our own privacy," says Thrasher.

Forbes

Holst has also been going through a period of discovery around what she wants to do next.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

That involved a period of self discovery.

The Guardian - Music

In the late 1980s, I was working on my masters degree at the University of Kansas, a period of great discovery for me as a student and an artist.

The Guardian

Despite more restrained spending, 2013/2014 will be a period of price discovery, as markets move into surplus and the sector lives through the over-spend of prior years.

The Guardian - Business

After years of linear gains in the genetic dissection of human disease we are now in a period of exponential discovery.

Trends in Genetics

The department will ask the court for a period of expedited discovery to investigate developments in the industry since the trial concluded, and to evaluate whether additional conduct-related provisions are necessary, especially in the absence of a breakup.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a period of discovery" to emphasize a time marked by exploration, learning, and new insights, particularly when referring to historical eras, personal development, or scientific advancements.

Common error

Avoid using "a period of discovery" when you actually mean "a period of invention". Discovery involves finding something that already exists, while invention involves creating something new.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a period of discovery" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. It denotes a span of time characterized by exploration, learning, and gaining new insights. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a period of discovery" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to describe a time marked by significant exploration and learning. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and suitable for various contexts. It's commonly found in news, academic, and scientific sources, denoting historical eras, personal growth stages, or phases in research. While alternatives like "an era of exploration" or "a time of revelation" exist, it's crucial to differentiate discovery from invention, ensuring accurate and impactful communication. The phrase enjoys frequent use across diverse sources, indicating its broad applicability and understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an era of exploration

This alternative emphasizes the exploratory nature of the time frame, focusing on venturing into the unknown.

a time of revelation

This phrase highlights the unveiling of new knowledge or understanding during the specified time.

an age of enlightenment

This suggests a period marked by intellectual or spiritual illumination and the gaining of profound insights.

a phase of investigation

This focuses on systematic inquiry and examination as the defining characteristic of the time.

a season of learning

This emphasizes the acquisition of knowledge and skills during the designated time frame.

a chapter of innovation

This highlights the introduction of new ideas, methods, or products during the period.

a stage of development

This focuses on growth, advancement, and evolution during the time frame.

a moment of realization

This phrase concentrates on a specific instance or point in time when a key understanding emerges.

a journey of understanding

This alternative characterizes the time frame as a process of gaining comprehension and insight.

a quest for knowledge

This highlights the pursuit of information and understanding as the primary focus of the time frame.

FAQs

How can I use "a period of discovery" in a sentence?

You can use "a period of discovery" to describe a time marked by significant exploration and learning, such as, "The Renaissance was "a period of discovery" that reshaped European art and science."

What phrases are similar to "a period of discovery"?

Similar phrases include "an era of exploration", "a time of revelation", or "an age of enlightenment", each emphasizing different aspects of learning and understanding.

Is it appropriate to use "a period of discovery" in formal writing?

Yes, "a period of discovery" is suitable for formal writing. It is a clear and concise way to describe a time frame characterized by exploration and learning, making it appropriate for academic, professional, and news contexts.

What distinguishes "a period of discovery" from "a period of invention"?

"A period of discovery" implies finding something that already exists, while "a period of invention" signifies creating something new. For example, the Age of Exploration was "a period of discovery", while the Industrial Revolution was "a period of invention".