active grapevine

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "active grapevine" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a lively or effective informal communication network, often regarding gossip or information sharing. Example: "In our office, the active grapevine keeps everyone informed about upcoming changes and events."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

There's an active grapevine.

The New York Times

An active grapevine among the Jewish community discusses which products are now questionable, as well as products which have become kosher but whose labels have yet to carry the hechsher.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

But she and others said the lack of social freedom only primed the active social grapevine at the academy.

The New York Times

Past Fort Tejon, the route descends through Grapevine Canyon to Grapevine (named for grapevines in the area ).

Wikipedia

Finally, it appears that both grapevine NPR1 are active in N. benthamiana, in agreement with the ability of AtNPR1 to activate defense responses in other plant species such as rice and wheat [ 14, 16].

BMC Plant Biology

In particular, opposing modulation of genes related to response to stress and protein metabolism was observed in T39-treated and control plants at 24 h after P. viticola inoculation, indicating inhibition of disease-related processes and induction of active defence in T39-treated grapevines.

BMC Genomics

For this purpose, grapevine samples containing single or mixed infections of Grapevine leafroll-associated virus-1, -2, -3, -4, -7, -9, Grapevine fanleaf virus, Grapevine rupestris stem pitting-associated virus, Grapevine virus A, and Grapevine virus B were used.

Journal of Virological Methods

Brokers: Grapevine Realty; Prudential Rand.

The New York Times

They have a grapevine.

The Guardian

And so may a grapevine.

The New York Times - Food

"The grapevine," the aide said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "active grapevine" when you want to emphasize the dynamic and informal way information spreads within a group or community. Avoid using it in formal or professional contexts where a more direct and official communication channel is expected.

Common error

Avoid using "active grapevine" in formal reports or business communications. It is best suited for informal discussions or descriptive writing about workplace dynamics or community interactions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "active grapevine" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "active" modifies "grapevine", denoting a lively or effective informal communication network. This aligns with Ludwig's examples showcasing its use in describing the spread of information within communities and organizations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "active grapevine" refers to a vibrant, informal communication network, often spreading news and rumors. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, but its usage is more common in news and media contexts, suggesting a neutral to informal register. While alternatives like "efficient grapevine" or "rumor mill" exist, it's important to reserve "active grapevine" for discussions about dynamic, unofficial information flow and avoid it in formal writing. The key is to be mindful of the context and choose the language that best suits the tone and audience. In essence, understanding the nuances of "active grapevine" helps in effective communication and avoiding potential misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

efficient grapevine

Highlights the speed and effectiveness of the information spread.

lively rumor mill

Emphasizes the spread of rumors and gossip.

informal communication network

A more formal and neutral alternative, focusing on the communication aspect.

unofficial channel of information

Highlights the unofficial nature of the information source.

rapid word-of-mouth

Focuses on the speed and personal nature of the communication.

open secret network

Implies information that is widely known but not formally acknowledged.

underground news source

Suggests a hidden or less visible source of information.

back channel communication

Implies secret or private communication.

the buzz

Refers to the general excitement and talk surrounding a topic.

scuttlebutt

A nautical term for rumors or gossip.

FAQs

What does "active grapevine" mean?

The term "active grapevine" refers to an informal and often rapid communication network, usually involving the spread of information, rumors, or gossip within a group or community.

How can I use "active grapevine" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe how information spreads unofficially. For example: "The news spread through the "active grapevine" before the official announcement."

What are some alternatives to "active grapevine"?

Alternatives include "rumor mill", "word of mouth", or "informal network" depending on the context.

Is "active grapevine" appropriate for formal writing?

No, "active grapevine" is generally considered informal. Use more formal terms like "communication network" or "information flow" in professional or academic contexts.