a widespread movement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a widespread movement" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant and extensive initiative or trend that has gained popularity or support among a large group of people. Example: "The environmental awareness campaign has turned into a widespread movement, inspiring millions to adopt sustainable practices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The men were united in their membership in Turner societies, a widespread movement that melded physical fitness with democratic reform activism.

The New York Times

More recently there has been a widespread movement away from the types of training described here as Normal School A and B to the college and university patterns.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The opposition is becoming more of a widespread movement inside Serbia, with opinion polls showing a growing desire for change and an end to international isolation, even if the current leaders of the opposition are not popular themselves.

The New York Times

Today, there is a widespread movement to keep El Salvador's gold and other metals in the ground, with politicians from all parties, the state's human rights office, civil society organisations and the Catholic church speaking out against mining.

The Guardian

This account, by Jesús Murillo Karam, director of the criminal investigation division PRG, failed to quell protests by the families of the missing, nor a widespread movement of those convinced of a cover-up of state involvement in the affair.

The Guardian

However, at the close of the 19th century there was a widespread movement on the part of the livery companies to revive interest in their respective crafts and trades and to devote corporate funds, where these existed, to charity and technical education in various schools and university colleges.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

This massive statistical shift took place in the context of a general increase in the number of women entering higher education, a product of the widespread movement toward gender equality and of campaigns to encourage girls and women to pursue their interests.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The stark contrast--between a highly optimistic, positive and widespread movement on the one hand, and so many serious challenges on the other--points to the decision facing each of us every moment.

Huffington Post

It is remarkable, to say the least, that sharp disagreement over a particular decision has ballooned into a widespread social movement to oust a judge.

The New Yorker

It's the kind of thing that needs a widespread rights movement in Australia and that's what we are trying to do with the film.

The Guardian

Since March, Syria has been gripped by a widespread protest movement against the government of Mr. Assad, whose family has ruled with an iron fist for four decades.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "a widespread movement" with precise language to clarify its nature. For instance, specify "a widespread social movement" or "a widespread political movement" to add precision.

Common error

Avoid using "a widespread movement" if the initiative is limited to a small group or region. Overstating its reach can undermine your credibility. Use more accurate descriptors like "a local initiative" or "a growing effort" if the movement hasn't achieved substantial reach.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a widespread movement" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an entity characterized by broad acceptance or participation, such as "The protest evolved into a widespread movement." Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Encyclopedias

16%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a widespread movement" is a noun phrase used to describe a significant trend or initiative supported by a large group of people. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and science. While it's crucial to ensure the movement's scale justifies its description, using this phrase effectively can add depth and credibility to your writing. Alternative phrases like "a broad trend" or "a common phenomenon" can be used depending on the specific nuances you wish to convey. Remember to provide concrete examples or data to reinforce that it is indeed "a widespread movement".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a broad trend

Emphasizes the breadth of the phenomenon rather than its active nature.

a sweeping change

Emphasizes the comprehensive and extensive nature of the alteration.

a prevalent tendency

Focuses on the commonality and inclination rather than collective action.

a growing wave

Conveys the increasing momentum and influence of the trend.

a common phenomenon

Highlights the frequency and observation of the event.

a mainstream shift

Indicates a change in societal norms or preferences.

a far-reaching initiative

Focuses on the extensive impact and scope of the project.

a popular uprising

Suggests a more active and potentially disruptive form of widespread action.

a societal transformation

Highlights the significant and fundamental changes occurring in society.

a global campaign

Implies an organized and international effort.

FAQs

How can I use "a widespread movement" in a sentence?

You can use "a widespread movement" to describe a trend, initiative, or social change that has gained significant popularity or support. For example, "The push for renewable energy has become "a widespread movement" across the globe".

What are some alternatives to "a widespread movement"?

Alternatives include "a broad trend", "a prevalent tendency", or "a common phenomenon" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a widespread movement"?

Use "a widespread movement" when referring to an initiative or trend that has gained significant traction and is supported by a large number of people or organizations. Make sure the scale of the activity justifies the description.

Is there a difference between "a widespread movement" and "a growing movement"?

"A widespread movement" implies that the movement has already achieved significant reach and support, while "a growing movement" suggests it is still in the process of expanding and gaining momentum.