a sweeping array

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sweeping array" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a wide and comprehensive range of items, options, or features in various contexts, such as discussions about products, services, or ideas. Example: "The exhibition featured a sweeping array of contemporary art pieces from around the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

A draft anti-terrorism law threatens to impose sentences of death and life imprisonment for a sweeping array of infractions.

The Economist

The deal would lower trade barriers for a sweeping array of products, including pork, wine, cheese and automobiles.

The Washington Post

"It seeks to hold him responsible for a sweeping array of events involving a political and religious movement consisting of thousands of participants," the lawyers wrote.

The New York Times

The MIT Energy Research Council, appointed by MIT President Susan Hockfield last year, is calling for a sweeping array of multidisciplinary research programs.

MIT Technology Review

BOSTON — James (Whitey) Bulger, the mobster who terrorized South Boston in the 1970s and '80s, holding the city in his thrall even after he disappeared, was convicted Monday of a sweeping array of gangland crimes, including 11 murders.

The New York Times

Many of Broadway's leading producers and representatives from its major unions were scrambling yesterday to make a sweeping array of concessions and cost-cutting measures to help mend an industry imperiled by plunging ticket sales and a lack of tourist dollars after last week's terrorist attacks.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

This is a facility with a wild, sweeping array of violations".

The New York Times

Declines across its sweeping array of stock and bond offerings cut the fees it earned for managing money on behalf of clients.

The New York Times

But that sweeping array of eight parallel escalators linking the mezzanine to the concourse 35 feet above -- really the defining architectural feature of the old station -- will be piercingly familiar.

The New York Times

DealBook » BlackRock Earnings Slip 3%, but Exceed Forecasts | "Declines across its sweeping array of stock and bond offerings cut the fees it earned for managing money on behalf of clients," Mr. de la Merced reported.

The New York Times

The administration's actions do not lift the sweeping array of economic sanctions in place against Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, but the announcement punctuated an extraordinary and swift warming of relations between two countries that have been estranged ever since Myanmar's military junta threw out the results of democratic elections in 1990 won by Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi's party.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a sweeping array" to introduce a list or description of items that are varied and extensive, creating a sense of thoroughness and comprehensiveness.

Common error

Avoid using "a sweeping array" when a simpler term like "various" or "several" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sweeping array" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a large, comprehensive, and diverse collection. Ludwig's examples confirm this usage across different contexts, highlighting its ability to describe varied sets of items or concepts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sweeping array" is a grammatically correct and versatile phrase used to describe a wide and comprehensive range of items, options, or features. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, from news and media to science and formal writing. While alternatives like "a wide range" or "a comprehensive selection" exist, "a sweeping array" effectively conveys thoroughness and breadth. Although not the most common phrase, its specific emphasis on comprehensiveness makes it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a wide range

Emphasizes the breadth of options or items available.

a broad spectrum

Highlights the diversity and inclusiveness of the collection.

a comprehensive selection

Focuses on the completeness and thoroughness of the choices.

an extensive collection

Stresses the large number of items within the group.

a vast assortment

Presents the image of a varied and plentiful accumulation.

a diverse compilation

Highlights the varied nature of the gathered elements.

a complete compendium

Suggests an exhaustive and all-encompassing resource.

a full complement

Indicates that everything necessary or expected is included.

a wholesale quantity

Emphasizes the large scale and unrestricted nature of the offering.

an all-embracing set

Highlights the inclusive and comprehensive nature of the collection.

FAQs

How can I use "a sweeping array" in a sentence?

Use "a sweeping array" to describe a wide range or diverse collection of items, options, or features. For instance: "The museum showcased "a sweeping array" of artifacts from different historical periods."

What can I say instead of "a sweeping array"?

Alternatives include "a wide range", "a broad spectrum", or "a comprehensive selection" depending on the specific context.

Is "a sweeping array" formal or informal?

"A sweeping array" is generally considered suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, making it versatile for various writing purposes.

What does "sweeping" emphasize in the phrase "a sweeping array"?

"Sweeping" emphasizes the comprehensive and encompassing nature of the array, indicating that it covers a large scope or variety.