a second bout of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a second bout of" is correct and is used in written English.
You can use it when referring to a second occurrence or episode of something. For example: Mary had a second bout of the flu this winter, and was out of school for two weeks.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

A second bout of unemployment could be a bigger stigma.

The New York Times

During a second bout of instability, from 1998 to 2002, the region introduced more pragmatic policies.

The Economist

Last year, on turning 70, a second bout of cancer resulted in my losing both breasts.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

After a second bout of tuberculosis, he retired from teaching and began a career as a professional photographer and artist.

The New York Times

The country was hit last week by a second bout of financial turmoil, despite a multibillion-dollar I.M.F.

The New York Times

Original guitarist Martin Bramah, who returned to the group for a second bout of masochism, once described their early songs as "Coronation Street on acid".

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Already, a first bout of procurement will deliver around 175,000 elective (non-emergency) operations a year.

The Economist

It dropped by almost 1% on Wednesday after the Fed appeared to rule out a third bout of quantitative easing.

The Guardian - Business

Only 63, he could now be facing a fourth bout of cancer, and the choice of an heir is clearly on his mind.

The Economist

In Britain, where the base rate has stood at an all-time low of 0.5% since March 2009, the chosen device was a third bout of quantitative easing (QE buying government bonds with freshly minted money.

The Economist

An opinion poll by ComRes, conducted after a first bout of student window-smashing in November, found 70% of the public agreed with the protesters' central charge: that higher fees will deter poorer kids from applying to university.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a second bout of", ensure the context clearly establishes the initial or previous occurrence. This helps maintain clarity and avoids confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "a second bout of" for events that are not episodic or countable. For example, it would be inappropriate to say "a second bout of happiness"; use "a second wave of happiness" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a second bout of" functions as a noun phrase, specifically acting as a determiner and noun modifying another noun. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct. It indicates a repeated occurrence or episode of something.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a second bout of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase suitable for describing recurring episodes or occurrences. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It's most common in news, scientific, and wiki contexts. To ensure proper usage, maintain clarity by referencing the initial occurrence and avoid using it with non-countable events. Consider alternatives like "another episode of" or "a repeat occurrence of" for variety. Remember that although is more often used to describe negative events, it can be used in other instances. By following these guidelines, you'll be able to use the phrase effectively and accurately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

another episode of

This alternative uses 'episode' to denote a recurring event or occurrence, similar to 'bout'.

a repeat occurrence of

Replaces 'bout' with 'occurrence,' emphasizing the repetition of the event.

a recurring instance of

Uses 'instance' instead of 'bout,' highlighting a specific case that recurs.

another round of

Employs 'round' to suggest a sequence or iteration, akin to a bout.

a renewed period of

Replaces 'bout' with 'period,' focusing on the duration or interval of the event.

a subsequent attack of

Substitutes 'bout' with 'attack,' implying a sudden or aggressive onset.

a repeated flare-up of

Uses 'flare-up' to indicate a sudden resurgence or intensification of a condition.

a further spell of

Replaces 'bout' with 'spell,' suggesting a period or phase of something.

a return of

Focuses on the aspect of something coming back or recurring.

a follow-up case of

Indicates that this instance is occurring after an initial event.

FAQs

How can I use "a second bout of" in a sentence?

You can use "a second bout of" to describe a recurring instance of something, such as "After a brief recovery, she suffered "a second bout of" illness".

What are some alternatives to saying "a second bout of"?

Alternatives include phrases like "another episode of", "a repeat occurrence of", or "a renewed period of", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "a second bout of" when referring to emotions?

While grammatically correct, it's less common. Consider using alternatives like "a second wave of" or "another surge of" when describing recurring emotional states.

What is the difference between "a second bout of" and "a recurring case of"?

"A second bout of" implies a discrete episode that has happened before, while "a recurring case of" suggests a more persistent or chronic condition that may not have fully resolved between occurrences.