a vast array

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a vast array" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a large and diverse collection of items, options, or elements. Example: "The museum features a vast array of artifacts from ancient civilizations, showcasing their rich history and culture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"A vast array of information was available".

The Guardian

There, Tonino Tizzano turns out a vast array of dishes.

The New York Times

The exhibition includes a vast array of her clothes.

The New York Times

A vast array of solutions are being rushed forward.

The Economist

"We have a vast array of instruments," Mr. Draghi said.

The New York Times

I have a cornucopia — a vast array of humiliating gear.

The New York Times

A vast array of delicious, trendy restaurants are filled to capacity.

The Guardian - Travel

It supports millions of jobs, directly or indirectly, in a vast array of businesses.

The New York Times

"Different people find beauty and meaning in a vast array of forms," Ms. Thompson said.

The New York Times - Arts

It's about technologies, about realising there's a vast array of solutions".

The Guardian

In the rehearsal, writing and talking stages are a vast array of musicals with cinema pedigrees.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a vast array", ensure the noun that follows accurately reflects the diversity or quantity you intend to convey. For example, "a vast array of options" works well because 'options' can be varied.

Common error

Avoid using "a vast array" with nouns that inherently lack diversity. For instance, "a vast array of water" is less effective than "a vast amount of water" because water is generally uniform.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a vast array" functions as a pre-modifier to a noun, indicating a large and diverse collection. Ludwig examples show it used to describe collections of items, solutions, and opportunities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a vast array" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a large and diverse collection. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it effectively communicates the breadth and variety of items, options, or elements. The phrase is frequently used in news media, but also appears in scientific and business contexts, indicating its versatility. When using "a vast array", ensure that the following noun accurately reflects diversity. For similar expressions, consider alternatives like ""a wide range"" or ""a large variety"" to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a wide range

Focuses on the breadth and diversity of items.

a large variety

Emphasizes the diverse nature of the items.

a great number

Highlights the large quantity of items.

a multitude

Suggests a very large and indefinite number.

a cornucopia

Implies an abundant and overflowing supply.

an extensive collection

Highlights the comprehensiveness and scale of the accumulation.

a diverse selection

Emphasizes the heterogeneity and choice available.

a comprehensive assortment

Focuses on the completeness of the collection.

an impressive inventory

Highlights the scale and magnitude of available resources.

a copious amount

Stresses the abundance and large quantity.

FAQs

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

You can use "a vast array" to describe a large and diverse collection of items or options. For example, "The store offers "a vast array" of products".

What phrases are similar to "a vast array"?

Alternatives include "a wide range", "a large variety", or "a multitude", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say 'an vast array' instead of "a vast array"?

No, the correct article to use is "a", not "an", because "vast" begins with a consonant sound. Therefore, the correct phrase is ""a vast array"".

What is the difference between "a vast array" and "a wide range"?

While both phrases suggest variety, ""a vast array"" emphasizes a large quantity and diversity, whereas ""a wide range"" focuses more on the extent of diversity.