a string of languages

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a string of languages" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sequence or collection of different languages, often in the context of programming or linguistics. Example: "The software supports a string of languages, including Python, Java, and C++."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Dothraki is far and away Peterson's best-known "conlang" (constructed language – call Klingon, Elvish or Na'vi a "made-up" or "pretend" language and you risk the wrath of "conlangers" the world over) but he caught the bug after being introduced to Esperanto during his masters in linguistics at Berkeley, and now has a string of languages under his belt – or at least on his website.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Mr. Ephraimson-Abt, who was fluent in a string of European languages, assisted not only the families of KAL 007 passengers, but also those of victims of many later crashes, including Pan Am Flight 103, which was destroyed by a bomb over Lockerbie, Scotland, in 1988.

The New York Times

It led a string of Chinese-language hits that outstripped Hollywood films like "Stolen," "Jack Reacher," and even "A Good Day to Die Hard," which briefly claimed the top spot in China.

The New York Times

During his tenure he has made stringent cuts to the world news reporting staff and closed a string of foreign language services including the BBC's Albanian, Serbian, Portuguese and Caribbean English outlets.

Independent

While in the west there have only been a handful of successful boybands in recent years, in Korea and Japan – where SHINee also had a huge following, leading to a string of Japanese-language albums – the appetite for ultra-emotional ballads and energetic dance tracks, performed by impossibly beautiful and well-drilled young men, is apparently insatiable.

The Guardian - Music

The company holds stakes in businesses ranging from professional soccer's Houston Dynamo to a string of Spanish-language newspapers to the bible of boxing, Ring magazine.

Forbes

"Would he side with his extreme anti-immigration advisors and repeal this measure?" Romney released the latest in a string of Spanish-language television ads Tuesday, this one attacking Obama over the national debt.

Los Angeles Times

They've also done a lot of detective work; the man born Brian O'Nolan, in Strabane, in 1911, published secretively, under a string of pseudonyms, in two languages.

The New York Times - Books

Born in Arles, South of France to a Moroccan father and an Algerian mother, Bouchikhi co-wrote a string of flamboyant, flamenco-inspired Spanish language hits for The Gypsy Kings in the 80s, including "Bamboléo".

Independent

Or the couch might have a pile of gene sequences – a string of A,C,T and G; another language with its own lexicon and semiotics – from the latest cancer genetics project that's going on in the lab.

The Guardian - Books

They represented each Indo-European language as a string of 1s and 0s, depending on whether it shared cognates for a list of words known to resist change.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a string of languages", ensure that the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to proficiency, support, or the existence of multiple languages within a system or individual's skillset.

Common error

Avoid using "a string of languages" when a more specific term like "multilingual" or "polyglot" would be more appropriate, especially when describing an individual's language skills.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a string of languages" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the object of a verb or preposition, indicating a set or collection of languages. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples of its application in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a string of languages" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a set or collection of languages. Ludwig AI identifies its function as typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition to inform about the presence or availability of multiple languages. The phrase maintains a neutral to formal register and appears across various contexts, including news, science, and academic writing. While "a string of languages" is not as frequently used as simpler alternatives like "several languages", it provides a specific and descriptive way to convey multilingual capabilities or resources. Consider its nuances when selecting the most appropriate term for clarity and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a series of languages

This alternative replaces "string" with "series", indicating an ordered sequence.

a collection of languages

This alternative uses "collection" instead of "string", suggesting a group of languages gathered together.

a range of languages

Using "range" implies a variety of languages, emphasizing diversity.

an array of languages

This alternative uses "array", suggesting a structured or organized set of languages.

a multitude of languages

Replacing "string" with "multitude" emphasizes a large number of languages.

a cluster of languages

This option uses "cluster" indicating a group of languages that are somehow related.

several languages

This alternative offers a more concise way to express multiple languages.

numerous languages

Similar to "several languages", but implies a larger quantity.

a host of languages

This alternative utilizes "host" which creates a sense of abundance of languages.

a selection of languages

This option uses "selection" highlighting chosen or available languages.

FAQs

How can I use "a string of languages" in a sentence?

You can use "a string of languages" to describe a person's fluency in multiple languages or the language support offered by a software program. For instance, "The software supports "a string of languages", making it accessible to a global audience."

What are some alternatives to "a string of languages"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a series of languages", "a collection of languages", or simply specify "several languages".

Is it better to say "a string of languages" or "multilingual"?

It depends on the context. "Multilingual" typically refers to a person or thing capable of using or understanding several languages. ""a string of languages"" can refer to a list or set of supported languages in software, documentation, or other systems.

What does it mean when someone is described as having "a string of languages under their belt"?

This idiomatically suggests that the person possesses fluency or a working knowledge of multiple languages, indicating a valuable skill set. It is similar to saying they are proficient in "several languages".