a shifting of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a shifting of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a change or movement from one state, position, or condition to another. Example: "The report discusses a shifting of priorities within the organization to better align with market demands."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But it does highlight a shifting of norms and expectations surrounding football.

The Economist

Some geologists and other experts linked the earthquake to a shifting of the Apennine Mountains.

The New York Times

But for G.E., the result has been more than a shifting of revenue.

The New York Times

are related because the central focus is on a shifting of characters.

The New York Times

That first moment when the screen subtly splits into two, like a shifting of tectonic plates, is a master stroke.

The New York Times

They see several positive changes in the country, like a stronger army and a shifting of public attitudes against extremism.

The New York Times

But that has meant only a shifting of the gears at the pathology lab, not really a rest.

The New York Times

It is a shifting of roles that they acknowledge, but they say it does not bother them.

The New York Times

Some advocates fear that his ambitions may lead to a shifting of that stance to avoid alienating moderate Republicans.

The New York Times

Senator Lindsey Graham, Republican of South Carolina, said "there has been a shifting of gears" among Republicans.

The New York Times

There was no conversation – just a glance of acknowledgment, a shifting of body weight, the revving of engines.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a shifting of" to describe a gradual change or repositioning, rather than a sudden or abrupt transformation. For example, "a shifting of priorities" implies a deliberate change in focus over time.

Common error

While "a shifting of" is widely accepted, avoid overusing it in highly formal writing where more precise terms like "a change in" or "a transition to" might be more appropriate, depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a shifting of" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It describes a change, movement, or adjustment from one state to another.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a shifting of" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe a change or movement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used in diverse contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, as well as scientific writing, it describes a gradual repositioning or adjustment. While "a change in" or "a transition of" serve as suitable alternatives, "a shifting of" uniquely emphasizes the process of change itself. When using this phrase, consider the nuance you wish to convey, as its subtle implication differentiates it from more direct synonyms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a change in

Emphasizes the alteration or modification rather than the process of moving.

a transition of

Highlights the process of changing from one state or condition to another.

a movement of

Focuses on the act of moving something from one place to another.

a rearrangement of

Suggests that something has been organized differently.

a re-evaluation of

Implies a new assessment or appraisal.

a modification to

Highlights specific alterations made to something.

an adjustment to

Indicates a fine-tuning or correction.

a realignment of

Suggests bringing things into a new or better alignment.

a revision of

Emphasizes the act of reviewing and altering something.

a displacement of

Focuses on the act of something being moved from its place.

FAQs

How can I use "a shifting of" in a sentence?

You can use "a shifting of" to describe a change or movement from one state, position, or condition to another. For example, "The company announced a "shifting of focus" to sustainable practices".

What are some alternatives to "a shifting of"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a change in", "a transition of", or "a rearrangement of".

Is it better to say "a shifting of priorities" or "a change in priorities"?

Both phrases are correct, but "a shifting of priorities" suggests a more gradual and deliberate adjustment, while "a change in priorities" might imply a more immediate or significant alteration.

What does "a shifting of" imply that "a transfer of" does not?

"A shifting of" suggests a more subtle repositioning or adjustment, while "a transfer of" implies a more direct movement or relocation of something.