across generations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase “across generations” is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which something is shared or passed down through several generations. For example, "The values of integrity and hard work have been passed down across generations in our family."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Betty reached across generations.

The New York Times

It speaks across generations.

The New Yorker

Crossword constructors think alike, even across generations!

The New York Times

Drug use is rampant, across generations.

The New York Times - Sports

You can't buddy-bond across generations.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The show uses Grandpa Piggley to emphasize storytelling across generations.

The New York Times

In Judaism, religion is a fixed identity across generations.

The New York Times

The quality that Butkus possessed joins middle linebackers across generations.

The New York Times - Sports

Yet his work resonated across generations," Trudeau wrote.

The Guardian - Music

Well so he has, across generations, cultures and countries.

The Guardian - Books

She also maintained many deep and lasting friendships across generations.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine with a verb that indicates how ideas are moving, for example, "passed across generations".

Common error

Avoid using "across generations" when you mean something is simply popular among multiple age groups at the same time. The phrase typically implies a transmission or connection between generations, not just simultaneous appeal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "across generations" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or adjectives to indicate that an action, quality, or characteristic extends or applies to multiple generations. Ludwig AI confirms this by providing examples in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "across generations" is a versatile and commonly used prepositional phrase that signifies something extending or applying to multiple generations. Ludwig AI indicates that it functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, used to modify verbs or adjectives and highlight enduring qualities or historical continuity. Its neutral register allows for usage across various contexts, from formal news articles and academic papers to more informal discussions. When writing, remember that this phrase implies a connection between generations. If you need alternatives, consider phrases like "spanning multiple generations" or "throughout generations".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spanning multiple generations

Emphasizes the act of covering or including several generations.

throughout generations

Highlights the continuation or persistence of something across successive generations.

over generations

Similar to "throughout generations", but can also imply a process occurring over time.

transgenerational

Highlights inheritance of traits beyond a single generation.

intergenerational

Focuses on the relationship or interaction between different generations.

from one generation to the next

More explicit about the sequential passing of something between generations.

in successive generations

Stresses the ordered progression of generations.

among different age groups

Focuses on different age cohorts existing at the same time, rather than a sequence.

for all ages

Broader in scope, referring to people of all ages rather than specifically generations.

ageless

Emphasizes that something is not limited by age or time period.

FAQs

How can I use "across generations" in a sentence?

You can use "across generations" to describe something that is shared, passed down, or relevant to multiple generations, such as, "The love for that novel has resonated "across generations"."

What are some alternatives to "across generations"?

Alternatives include "spanning multiple generations", "throughout generations", or "intergenerational", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "between generations" instead of "across generations"?

While "between generations" is grammatically correct, it emphasizes the differences or relationships between two specific generations. "Across generations" suggests a broader scope, encompassing multiple generations and a shared connection or characteristic.

What's the difference between "intergenerational" and "across generations"?

"Intergenerational" specifically refers to the interactions and relationships between generations. "Across generations" implies something extends or applies to many generations, not necessarily focusing on direct interaction. For example, "Intergenerational programs" promote contact, whereas a "story that resonates "across generations"" is enjoyed by many age groups over time.