a vast list of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a vast list of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a large quantity or extensive collection of items, ideas, or information. Example: "The report included a vast list of recommendations for improving the company's performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Women are already bombarded with a vast list of things to avoid during pregnancy.

The Guardian

And now I have a vast list of things I need to consume.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Microsoft has a vast list of links to such products, including digital cameras, at www.microsoft.com/windows/catalog.

The New York Times - Tech

When asked how Phone.com helps such a vast list of partners develop wireless programs, Ms. Simpson laughed.

The New York Times

So why did a vast list of Western political, military and academic leaders accept the value of Mao's brand at his own estimation?

The Economist

Speaking of which, you can watch a vast list of games — with the exception of those in your local blackout area — with a $100 subscription to MLB.tv.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

"Sometimes you have to ask, 'Guys, did this really happen?' " To help educate the golfing public, the U.S.G.A. Web site (usga.org) has a vast listing of frequently asked questions pertaining to each of the 34 primary rules.

The New York Times - Sports

And every so often someone will point out an error in the vast list of recommendations on the blog (a collection of all the valid title suggestions I've received since the project began).

Independent

After Republicans sent an e-mail message about the comment to their vast list of reporters, Mr. Schmidt followed up with telephone calls to select reporters traveling with Mr. Kerry to make sure they noticed it.

The New York Times

Over the weekend I attempted to establish sleeping as a further leisure activity, but I'm afraid that the vast list of things I have to do before most days break – or, indeed, I myself break – made that impossible.

The Guardian - Books

The vast list of references he drops could be an encyclopedic dictionary of hip-hop, and the rhythm of his patter is so finely modulated that his 10-minute speech sounds like a grand aria of rap.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a vast list of", ensure the items on the list are related to each other in some way to maintain coherence. For example, "a vast list of potential research topics" is more effective than "a vast list of random objects".

Common error

Avoid using "a vast list of" simply to exaggerate the quantity. Ensure the list is genuinely extensive; otherwise, opt for a more appropriate descriptor like "a substantial list of" or "a comprehensive list of".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a vast list of" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. It introduces a noun, specifying that it is a list and emphasizing its large size. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a vast list of" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase, indicating a large and extensive collection of items. As affirmed by Ludwig, it is suitable for use across varied contexts, from news and media to scientific writing. While versatile, it's important to consider the context and choose synonyms like "an extensive catalog of" or "a wide array of" to avoid overuse and ensure the most appropriate emphasis. Remember to use the phrase when the list being described is genuinely expansive, and that doing so will help improve your writing’s clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an extensive catalog of

Substitutes "list" with "catalog", implying a structured and organized compilation. "Vast" is replaced with "extensive", suggesting a wide scope.

an expansive collection of

Replaces "list" with "collection", focusing on the gathered nature of items. "Vast" becomes "expansive", highlighting the comprehensive reach

a comprehensive inventory of

Replaces "list" with "inventory", suggesting a more detailed and exhaustive collection. "Vast" is replaced with "comprehensive", indicating thoroughness.

a considerable assortment of

Replaces "list" with "assortment", suggesting a varied collection. "Vast" becomes "considerable", indicating a noteworthy size or amount.

a wide array of

Replaces "list" with "array", focusing on the diverse nature of the items. The phrase omits explicit mention of a list, emphasizing variety.

a long series of

Emphasizes the sequential nature of the items, implying an order or progression. "Vast" is replaced with "long", focusing on length.

a plethora of

Replaces the entire phrase with "a plethora of", indicating an abundance of something. It is less formal than the original.

a multitude of

Similar to "a great number of", emphasizing a large quantity. It is slightly more formal.

a great number of

Shifts the focus to quantity rather than a structured enumeration. It is a more general expression of a large quantity.

a laundry list of

Emphasizes the tedious or overwhelming nature of a long list, usually including unpleasant tasks or demands.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "a vast list of"?

You can use alternatives like "an extensive catalog of", "a wide array of", or "a comprehensive inventory of" depending on the specific context.

How can I use "a vast list of" in a sentence?

The phrase "a vast list of" is used to describe a very large number of items, examples: "The museum boasts "a vast list of" ancient artifacts." or "She presented "a vast list of" reasons why the project should be approved."

Is there a more formal way to say "a vast list of"?

Yes, more formal alternatives include "a comprehensive enumeration of", "an exhaustive compendium of", or "an extensive inventory of". These options are suited for academic or professional contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "a vast list of" instead of "a long list of"?

"A vast list of" suggests a greater magnitude and possibly complexity than "a long list of". Use "a vast list of" when emphasizing the sheer number and diversity of items, like "a vast list of potential side effects".