a widespread knowledge of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a widespread knowledge of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a general understanding or familiarity with a particular subject or topic among a large group of people. Example: "The organization aims to promote a widespread knowledge of environmental issues among the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In 1898, American commentators claimed that serious cases of homesickness had "grown less common in these days of quick communication, of rapid transmission of news and of a widespread knowledge of geography".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Yet those outward signs obscure solid underpinnings for economic growth, including a democratic government, a strong education system, widespread knowledge of English and a deep pool of expatriates experienced in Western businesses, according to Wharton faculty and experts in emerging-market private equity.

Forbes

The numbers at the primary site, where the recruitment period was longer, were a reflection of the efforts of the investigators (who actively recruited patients from the waiting room), availability of RAs up to 16 hours a day, and widespread knowledge of the study throughout the community and the emergency medical services.

Academic Emergency Medicine

Economic development, the internet, widespread knowledge of English (an official language alongside Maltese) and other factors have all been important.

The Guardian - Opinion

FGs were conducted by trained project staff, consisting of a moderator and assistant moderator, who had widespread knowledge of FG methodology and extensive experience with injury prevention research.

Injury Epidemiology

But do me a favor, keep it under your hat as widespread knowledge of its quality might surely harm it.

The New York Times

Other papers showed how MI5 and MI6 submitted more than 1,600 questions to be put to Belhaj and a second kidnap victim, Sami al-Saadi, despite the widespread knowledge of the use of torture in Gaddafi's prisons.

The Guardian

In more than four hours of testimony, she described a culture of intimidation at Enron where there was widespread knowledge of the company's shaky finances but no one felt confident enough to confront Mr. Skilling, who resigned in August, or Mr. Fastow, who was ousted in October.

The New York Times

In these medical specialties, there is an enormous amount of direct-to-consumer advertising and widespread knowledge of price points ("Did you know that Dr. X can do it for $600 an eye?").

Forbes

A further reason for variations in self-reported drug take up relate to widespread knowledge of side-effects.

Health Research Policy and Systems

It alleged widespread knowledge of hacking at the NOTW, which contradicts his evidence to MPs.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a widespread knowledge of", ensure your writing clearly specifies who possesses this knowledge and what the subject of that knowledge is. This provides clarity and context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a widespread knowledge of" a topic automatically translates to action or changed behavior. While awareness is a first step, it doesn't guarantee understanding or application.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a widespread knowledge of" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts, indicating its integration within standard English grammar.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

28%

Science

53%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a widespread knowledge of" is a versatile term used to describe the extent of understanding or awareness within a group. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical status and suitability for various contexts, including news, science, and business. While a general term, it emphasizes the broad distribution of knowledge, distinct from deeper expertise. Alternatives like "a broad understanding of" and "general awareness of" offer subtly different shades of meaning. Remember to clearly identify who possesses the knowledge and what they know to avoid ambiguity. Be cautious not to assume that knowledge automatically leads to action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

widespread understanding of

Replaces "a" with "widespread", focusing on the extent of the comprehension.

a broad understanding of

Replaces "knowledge" with "understanding", suggesting a deeper comprehension.

a general awareness of

Substitutes "knowledge" with "awareness", indicating a more basic level of familiarity.

common understanding of

Emphasizes the shared nature of the understanding.

common knowledge about

Uses "common knowledge" emphasizing that the knowledge is well-known.

general familiarity with

Replaces "knowledge" with "familiarity", suggesting a comfortable, but not necessarily in-depth, understanding.

public awareness of

Highlights the public nature of the awareness, suitable when referring to issues of public concern.

general recognition of

Shifts focus to the recognition of something, rather than detailed knowledge.

overall awareness regarding

Implies a global sense of understanding in regards to a specific topic.

extensive information about

Highlights the availability of a lot of information instead of the degree of understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "a widespread knowledge of" in a sentence?

You can use "a widespread knowledge of" to indicate that a large number of people are generally aware of a particular fact, concept, or issue. For example, "A widespread knowledge of climate change is essential for promoting sustainable practices".

What's the difference between "a widespread knowledge of" and "a general awareness of"?

"A widespread knowledge of" implies a more thorough understanding, while "a general awareness of" suggests a basic familiarity without in-depth understanding.

What are some alternatives to "a widespread knowledge of"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a broad understanding of", "common understanding of", or "public awareness of".

Is it always positive to have "a widespread knowledge of" something?

Not necessarily. While widespread knowledge can be beneficial, it can also highlight problems if that knowledge isn't acted upon or if it reveals awareness of negative practices. The implications depend on the specific context.