a vast scale

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a vast scale" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is extensive or large in size, scope, or magnitude. Example: "The project was undertaken on a vast scale, involving multiple countries and thousands of participants."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Here, nature is on a vast scale.

The Economist

Nothing, then, on a vast scale.

The Guardian - Arts

Security breaches happen on a vast scale.

The New York Times

The mice had also nibbled, on a vast scale.

The Guardian

BP began to acquire matériel on a vast scale.

The New Yorker

It is a dirty trick on a vast scale.

The New York Times - Magazine

Mass migration will happen, on a vast scale.

The New Yorker

Production was on a vast scale, and great quantities survive.

Encyclopedia Britannica

On a vast scale, innocent people are being slaughtered.

The Washington Post

Perhaps what's needed is decapitation on a vast scale.

The Economist

They make something, but they're doing it on a vast scale.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a vast scale" to emphasize the sheer size, scope, or magnitude of something, particularly when you want to convey a sense of impressiveness or comprehensiveness. For example, "The humanitarian effort was launched on a vast scale to address the widespread needs of the affected population."

Common error

Avoid using "a vast scale" when describing something that is merely large but lacks significant impact or scope. It's more appropriate for situations involving widespread consequences or extensive undertakings. Instead, consider simpler alternatives like "large" or "extensive" if the situation doesn't warrant the emphasis of "vast".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a vast scale" functions as an adverbial phrase, typically modifying a verb or noun to describe the extent or magnitude of an action or entity. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing this usage across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a vast scale" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize the significant size, scope, or magnitude of something. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news, academic, and encyclopedic contexts. While interchangeable with alternatives like "on a large scale" or "extensively", "a vast scale" carries a stronger sense of impressiveness. When writing, it's best to reserve its usage for situations where you want to highlight the exceptional extent or impact of the subject. Overusing in limited contexts can diminish its effect. The most authoritative sources using this phrase are typically major news outlets, demonstrating its acceptance in professional and formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on a large scale

A more general and direct synonym, focusing on the extent of something.

on a wide scale

Similar to "large scale" but can also imply diversity or variety.

on an immense scale

Highlights the exceptional size or degree involved.

on an enormous scale

Highlights the great size and impact.

on a massive scale

Suggests great size and potential impact.

on a grand scale

Emphasizes impressiveness and ambition more than just size.

on an unprecedented scale

Emphasizes that something has never happened to this degree before.

on a considerable scale

Indicates a noteworthy or significant extent.

in a widespread manner

Focuses on the broad distribution or occurrence of something.

extensively

Adverb form emphasizing thoroughness and breadth of coverage.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a vast scale" in a sentence?

Use "a vast scale" to emphasize the extensive nature or magnitude of an event, project, or problem. For example, "The government implemented economic reforms on "a vast scale" to address the financial crisis."

What are some alternatives to "a vast scale" that I can use?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "on a large scale", "extensively", or "on a grand scale" to convey a similar meaning.

Is there a difference between "a large scale" and "a vast scale"?

While both phrases indicate a significant size or scope, "a vast scale" suggests a more immense or impressive magnitude than "a large scale". The choice depends on the degree of emphasis you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a vast scale" in writing?

It is appropriate when describing something that is exceptionally large, widespread, or significant in its impact or scope. Avoid using it for situations that are simply large but not exceptionally so. For example, it fits well when describing global initiatives or widespread phenomena.