a stratum of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stratum of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a layer or level within a particular context, such as in geology, sociology, or any field that discusses layers or levels of complexity. Example: "The research revealed a stratum of cultural beliefs that influenced the community's behavior."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Observing the protests just over a week ago, it was clear that there is a stratum of society ready for a radical and/or populist leader: either might provide a nationalist answer to a seemingly interminable crisis.

The New York Times

Tarantino compresses it all into a stratum of pulp.

The Guardian - Film

When we pause for coffee, our seat is a stratum of fossilized tree roots.

The Guardian - Travel

The result is a stratum of businesses that is not beholden to the same social settlement as previous generations.

The Guardian

The mistakes go directly to a shoe box and eventually to a stratum of the Oort cloud.

The New York Times - Magazine

However, a stratum of fibrovascular tissue at the matrix-host interface containing microvasculatures and inflammatory cells was observed.

Nature

Hiding underneath, a layer of smoked date purée added a stratum of sweetness to the savory.

The New York Times - Travel

Further down are relics of the Beatnik era, then a stratum of the Angry Young Men, another of boozy literati in Fitzrovia.

The Guardian - Books

These descendants were the old free-issue families who formed a stratum of society distinct both from whites and the poorer darker-skinned blacks.

The New Yorker

"The sharpening of inequality has everywhere... been primarily the result of the growth of a stratum of super-rich". Massey is right.

The Guardian - Opinion

The orangutan is one of the many organisms, simple and complex, that pass before Charles Darwin Paul Bettanyy), a stratum of whose life is the subject of "Creation".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a stratum of" to denote a distinct layer or level within a system, whether geological, social, or conceptual. Ensure the context clearly establishes what the "stratum" is a part of.

Common error

Avoid using "a stratum of" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "a layer of" or "a group of" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stratum of" functions as a determiner followed by a noun, modifying a subsequent noun to indicate a specific layer, level, or grouping within a larger whole. This is supported by Ludwig's analysis and numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

39%

Encyclopedias

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a stratum of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig. It serves to specify a distinct layer or level within a larger context, lending precision to formal and scientific discussions. While it appears most often in news, science, and encyclopedia sources, writers should exercise caution against overuse in informal settings, opting for simpler alternatives like "a layer of" or "a section of" when appropriate. Ultimately, its precise usage and presence in authoritative sources make it a valuable tool for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a layer of

Replaces "stratum" with a more common and straightforward term for a covering or level.

a level of

Substitutes "stratum" with a simpler term indicating a hierarchical position or stage.

a section of

Emphasizes a distinct part or division within a larger entity, differing slightly from a geological or social "stratum".

a segment of

Highlights a specific portion or piece, similar to "section" but implying a more defined separation.

a tier of

Suggests a ranked or ordered level, commonly used in hierarchical structures.

a band of

Implies a strip or grouping, often used in geological or social contexts referring to a specific zone or category.

a class of

Focuses on categorization, denoting a group sharing common characteristics, distinct from a physical layer.

a category of

Similar to "class", emphasizing classification and shared attributes, but less about a structured level.

a vein of

Used to describe a streak or trace of something within a larger mass, often in geological or metaphorical contexts.

a deposit of

Specifically indicates an accumulation or laying down of material, often in geological or financial contexts.

FAQs

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

Use "a stratum of" to describe a layer or level within something. For example, "The excavation revealed a stratum of ancient artifacts", or "There is a stratum of society that benefits greatly from these policies."

What can I say instead of "a stratum of"?

You can use alternatives like "a layer of", "a level of", or "a section of" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a stratum of"?

It is appropriate to use "a stratum of" in formal writing or when discussing geological, social, or conceptual layers. In less formal settings, consider using simpler alternatives.

Is there a difference between "a stratum of" and "a layer of"?

While "a layer of" is often a suitable substitute for "a stratum of", the latter carries a more formal tone and is often used in technical or academic contexts. "Stratum" implies a more distinct and defined level.