a vast library

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a vast library" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a large collection of books or resources, often in a metaphorical sense to indicate a wealth of information. Example: "The internet serves as a vast library, offering access to knowledge on virtually any topic imaginable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She had built up a vast library of experiences over the years, she went on.

The New Yorker

A vast library could be created of brilliant, sour, funny divorce novels, films and songs.

Independent

John was an avid reader and had a vast library particularly books of an historical nature.

The New York Times

This six-CD-ROM program for Windows includes a vast library of clip art and templates.

The New York Times - Tech

A search of Ali's house after his arrest uncovered a vast library of lectures by Awlaki.

The Guardian

Microsoft keeps a vast library of technical articles on its Web site at support.microsoft.com/search.microsoft.com/search

The New York Times - Tech

The internet established itself in academic institutions and is a vast library of information.

The Guardian - Tech

A vast library with high, arched Victorian doorways and, seemingly, tens of thousands of volumes.

The New York Times - Arts

London is a vast library, a chamber of echoes and quotations.

The Guardian - Books

A vast library of prebuilt toolboxes lets you get started with algorithms essential to your domain.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

His own literature is informed by a vast library, and yet we are cutting ourselves off from that.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "a vast library" to convey not just size, but also the richness and diversity of the resources available. For example, "The internet serves as a "vast library" of information, connecting people to knowledge from around the globe."

Common error

Avoid using "a vast library" when the size is already implied or obvious. Instead, focus on what makes the collection unique or valuable. For example, instead of saying "the museum had a vast library of artifacts", consider specifying "the museum's collection showcased rare and well-preserved artifacts from the era".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a vast library" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "vast" modifies the noun "library". Ludwig AI data validates the phrase's role in describing the extensive nature of a collection.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

25%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a vast library" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe an extensive collection of resources, information, or data. Ludwig AI confirms its versatile application across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Academia, and Science. While generally neutral in tone, "a vast library" is effective for conveying the sheer size and comprehensiveness of a collection. For enhanced precision in professional settings, consider more specific alternatives like "extensive database" or "comprehensive dataset". Avoid overuse in contexts where the size is already implied.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an extensive collection

Focuses on the breadth and detail of the collection.

a comprehensive archive

Suggests an organized and complete compilation, often of historical materials.

a substantial repository

Highlights the role of the library as a place where information is stored.

a wealth of knowledge

Emphasizes the abundance and value of information available.

an expansive database

Implies a structured and searchable digital collection of information.

a considerable inventory

Suggests a detailed and itemized list of holdings.

a massive accumulation

Highlights the sheer size and unplanned nature of the collection.

an immense compendium

Suggests a summary or collection of information.

a boundless source of information

Focuses on the availability and scope of the knowledge.

a bottomless well of knowledge

Highlights the inexhaustible nature of the information available.

FAQs

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

You can use "a vast library" to describe a large collection of books, data, or other resources. For example, "The university's digital archive serves as "a vast library" of historical documents".

What are some alternatives to "a vast library"?

Alternatives include "an extensive collection", "a comprehensive archive", or "a substantial repository" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a vast library"?

It's appropriate when emphasizing the size and scope of a collection, especially in contexts where the resources are diverse and comprehensive. For example, describing the internet as a "a vast library" of information highlights its capacity to provide answers to virtually any question.

Is "a vast library" a formal or informal expression?

"A vast library" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but it's often used in more descriptive or literary writing. In professional settings, more specific terms like "an extensive database" or "a comprehensive dataset" might be preferred for greater precision.