a separate strand of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a separate strand of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a distinct or independent element within a larger context or discussion. Example: "In our research, we identified a separate strand of thought that challenges the conventional theories."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

The idea was not to create a separate strand of children's literature tackling disability issues, but simply to promote inclusion.

The Guardian

Perhaps now's the time for a separate strand of Angry Birds 'kids' games, either as paid titles or completely-free games, to promote those other products.

The Guardian - Tech

A separate strand of the negotiations, set up to accommodate the US because of its refusal to ratify Kyoto, was closed.

The Guardian

The comments are the latest setback for the billionaire, who on Tuesday was chastised by the same judge for his legal tactics in a separate strand of his battle with Rangers.

The Guardian - Business

"Therefore, of course there will be arrangements that will make it possible for individuals who disagree with women's ordination to stay in, but the thought of having a separate strand of bishops is precisely what the General Synod debated and rejected over a year ago".

The Guardian

And Iran itself is better understood as an assertive rising (and dangerous) power that happens to have a theocratic constitution than as an ally of al-Qaeda, whose ideas come from a separate strand of Islam.Al-Qaeda did not invent terrorism.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Work around your head twisting each separate strand of hair into a rope, and then spiraling this into a small bun to be pinned to the top of your head.

WikiHow

A typical wig takes 140,000 separate strands of hair, all sewn in individually by hand, in a painstaking process using small knitting needles that have to be held at a consistent angle.

The New York Times - Health

Then Mr. Turner and Mr. Grenadier both entered, playing separate strands of a loosely braided melody.

The New York Times - Arts

But in the end, they prove to be separate strands of a single truth.

Huffington Post

This diachronic study spatially reconstructs the land cover of Northern Mesopotamia using a bottom-up approach that brings together three separate strands of research conducted independently by each of the authors examining three independent lines of evidence: seed/grain, charcoal, and isotope data.

Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a separate strand of", ensure that the context clearly establishes the larger entity or concept from which this strand is being distinguished. This clarifies the relationship and enhances understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "a separate strand of" when "a separate aspect of" would be more appropriate. "Strand" implies a physical or conceptual thread, while "aspect" refers to a feature or characteristic. Choose the term that best reflects the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a separate strand of" functions as a modifier, introducing a distinct component or aspect within a larger topic or discussion. As supported by Ludwig, this phrase helps to isolate and emphasize a specific element for closer examination.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a separate strand of" is a grammatically sound and usable expression for denoting a distinct, independent component within a larger context. According to Ludwig AI, it serves to highlight and differentiate a specific aspect for detailed consideration. While suitable for various settings, its analytical nature aligns well with formal discussions, commonly appearing in News & Media and Science contexts. Though examples are relatively less frequent, this expression remains a valuable tool for precise and clear communication. The phrase invites the user to ensure that it’s the most suitable construction compared to alternative phrases, such as "a distinct line of" or "an independent aspect of".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a distinct line of

Replaces "strand" with "line", emphasizing a clear and defined path or direction.

an independent aspect of

Substitutes "separate strand" with "independent aspect", focusing on the self-governing nature of the element.

a discrete element of

Uses "discrete element" instead of "separate strand", highlighting the element's individual and non-continuous nature.

a unique facet of

Replaces "separate strand" with "unique facet", emphasizing the distinct and characteristic nature of the element.

a different component of

Changes "strand" to "component", focusing on the part that contributes to the whole, while highlighting its distinctness.

an isolated thread of

Uses "isolated thread" to convey the idea of a single, unconnected element, similar to a strand.

a particular vein of

Substitutes "strand" with "vein", implying a specific and distinct source or direction.

a detached segment of

Emphasizes the separation of the element from the main body using "detached segment".

an individual component of

Highlights the individuality of the element within a larger system.

a self-contained unit of

Focuses on the element's completeness and independence using "self-contained unit".

FAQs

How can I use "a separate strand of" in a sentence?

Use "a separate strand of" to introduce a distinct but related element within a broader topic. For example, "The research uncovered "a separate strand of" evidence supporting the alternative hypothesis".

What are some alternatives to "a separate strand of"?

You can use alternatives like "a distinct line of", "an independent aspect of", or "a discrete element of" depending on the context.

Is "a separate strand of" formal or informal?

"A separate strand of" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, consider the audience and choose a more precise alternative if greater clarity is needed.

What is the difference between "a separate strand of" and "a different strand of"?

"A separate strand of" emphasizes the distinctness of an element, while "a different strand of" highlights the distinction in comparison to another element. The best option depends on whether you are emphasizing independence or difference.