a succession of changes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a succession of changes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a series of alterations or developments that occur one after another over a period of time. Example: "The project underwent a succession of changes before reaching its final form."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

This region, called the Military Frontier, underwent a succession of changes in its political status during the 19th century.

Britannica

America lost that war because a succession of changes in South Vietnamese leadership, many of them inspired by Washington, never produced an effective government in Saigon.

The New York Times

Once the genetic sex has been determined, there normally follows a succession of changes that will result, finally, in the development of an adult male or female.

Encyclopedia Britannica

After this elapsed time and a succession of changes to the internal and external JET structures, the JET neutron yield calibration needs re-measurement.

Nuclear Engineering and Design

It's a mistake to think that extremist parties are characterised by ideological rigidity; in fact, on any question on which there can be internal competition in such parties, there tends to be a succession of changes in position.

The Economist

Radio 1 is in the process of retuning to a younger audience, with Nick Grimshaw replacing Chris Moyles at breakfast two years ago the first of a succession of changes on the station, after repeated calls by the BBC Trust to bring down the average age of is listenership.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Chisholm (1967) arrives at his role-switching world by a series of steps; thus his argument appears to rely on the combination of the transitivity of identity (across possible worlds) together with the assumption that a succession of small changes can add up to a big change.

SEP

The once-proud paper has been humbled by a succession of strategic changes of direction by its most recent owners.

The Guardian

That brought in a succession of other changes, too: after 40 years of incredible service, our editor, Vic Keegan, retired (though of course, he's remained a columnist).

The Guardian - Tech

Its multiple electoral losses forced a succession of leadership changes and ultimately a major rethinking under Cameron when he became leader almost five years ago.

The Washington Post

NPR, which has suffered a succession of leadership changes over the better part of a decade, needs a new chief executive again.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a succession of changes", ensure the context clearly indicates the area or aspect that is undergoing these changes. For instance, specify "a succession of changes in policy" or "a succession of changes in leadership" to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a succession of changes" when referring to a single, isolated change. This phrase implies multiple alterations occurring one after another. If there's only one change, use a more appropriate term like "a change" or "an adjustment".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a succession of changes" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating its use in describing a series of related alterations or developments.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a succession of changes" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a series of alterations or developments occurring one after another. According to Ludwig, it's suitable for various contexts, including science, news and media, and encyclopedias. While not extremely common, it provides a clear and concise way to convey the idea of multiple related changes. Remember to clearly specify the scope of the changes and avoid using the phrase when referring to a single change. Alternative phrases like "a series of transformations" or "a chain of events" can be used depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a series of transformations

Emphasizes the transformative aspect of the changes.

a sequence of modifications

Highlights the sequential nature and the act of modifying something.

a chain of events

Focuses on the cause-and-effect relationship between the changes.

a string of alterations

Stresses the linear and connected aspect of the changes.

a course of developments

Highlights the unfolding or progression aspect of the changes.

an evolution of adjustments

Emphasizes the evolutionary and adaptive nature of the changes.

a parade of shifts

Uses a more figurative and emphatic way to depict a long series of changes.

a ripple effect of alterations

Focuses on alterations that produces a domino effect.

a cascade of revisions

Emphasizes revisions that appears in a rapid way.

a constant flux of variations

Stresses a continuous and ongoing process of changes.

FAQs

How can I use "a succession of changes" in a sentence?

You can use "a succession of changes" to describe a series of alterations or developments. For example, "The company experienced "a succession of changes" in its management structure."

What phrases are similar to "a succession of changes"?

Similar phrases include "a series of transformations", "a sequence of modifications", or "a chain of events" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a succession of changes" in formal writing?

Yes, "a succession of changes" is suitable for formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to describe multiple changes occurring over time.

What's the difference between "a succession of changes" and "a series of changes"?

While both phrases are similar, "a succession of changes" often implies that the changes are directly related or follow a specific sequence. "A series of changes" /s/a+series+of+changes is more general and may not necessarily indicate a direct connection between the alterations.