a varied cross section

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a varied cross section" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a diverse representation or sample of a larger group or category. Example: "The exhibition featured a varied cross section of contemporary artists, showcasing different styles and mediums."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

For such a varied cross section of Palestinian society, an unusual harmony prevailed.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

There are organized political parties, war veterans, and then a varied cross-section of young people who feel betrayed by the regime.

Vice

There are organised political parties, war veterans and then a varied cross-section of young people who feel betrayed by the regime.

Vice

Moore notes however, that "it's probably quite fashionable... to have the odd gay character," and that the inclusion of LGBT people continues to improve in mainstream comics, but that the characters continue to be limited by stereotypes and do not represent a varied cross-section of LGBT people.

Wikipedia

"We are keenly focused on sentiment, engagement and social conversation across a wide and varied cross section of music fans".

Huffington Post

The complex hollow shell structure with curved axis and varied cross sections can be fabricated by double sheet hydroforming process more easily and efficiently than traditional stamping and welding method.

Transactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China

No province has a more diverse landscape; it is a cross section of many varied geological zones, namely, the Pyrenees, the scarps and basins of the interior of Catalonia, the littoral ranges, the central depression, the coastal ranges, and the coastal plains.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"It has to be a real cross section".

The New York Times

While we were there, it was a demographic cross section.

The New York Times - Food

"I wanted a real cross section of men who dance.

The New York Times - Arts

a Hillslope cross section.

Ecological Processes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a varied cross section", ensure that the diversity you are describing is relevant and contributes meaningfully to your overall point. Avoid using it as a generic filler phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "a varied cross section" when the diversity is superficial or doesn't truly represent different perspectives or experiences. Ensure the variety is substantive and meaningful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a varied cross section" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes a diverse representation or sample of a larger group. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a varied cross section" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a diverse and representative sample. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While suitable for various contexts, it's most commonly found in news, scientific, and formal business writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the diversity is genuine and contributes meaningfully to the overall message. Be mindful of potential redundancy with similar phrasing, and tailor your choice to the specific context. Related phrases such as "a diverse selection" and "a heterogeneous mix" can offer alternative ways to express the same idea.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a diverse selection

Replaces "cross section" with "selection", emphasizing the act of choosing from different options.

a heterogeneous mix

Substitutes "varied" with "heterogeneous" and "cross section" with "mix", highlighting the diverse nature of the combination.

a wide assortment

Replaces "varied cross section" with "wide assortment", focusing on the broad range of items or people.

a diverse array

Similar to "a wide assortment", but emphasizes the structured or organized nature of the diversity.

a representative sample

Focuses on the idea that the "cross section" accurately reflects the characteristics of the larger group.

a broad spectrum

Emphasizes the range of different elements included.

a mixed bag

An informal alternative suggesting a collection of diverse elements, potentially with varying quality.

a wide range

Focuses on the extent of diversity, rather than representativeness.

a diverse group

A more general term indicating variety within a collection of people or things.

a mixed composition

Highlights that a thing or set of things are combined together to form a mixture.

FAQs

How can I use "a varied cross section" in a sentence?

You can use "a varied cross section" to describe a group or sample that includes a diverse range of people or elements. For example, "The study included "a varied cross section" of participants from different socioeconomic backgrounds".

What are some alternatives to "a varied cross section"?

Alternatives to "a varied cross section" include "a diverse selection", "a heterogeneous mix", or "a representative sample". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "a wide and varied cross section"?

While not strictly redundant, using both "wide" and "varied" can sometimes feel repetitive. Consider whether one word sufficiently conveys the intended meaning, or rephrase to emphasize the specific aspect of diversity you want to highlight.

When is it appropriate to use "a varied cross section" in formal writing?

"A varied cross section" is appropriate in formal writing when you need to convey that a group or sample includes a diverse range of elements. Be sure to use specific examples or details to support your claim of diversity.