an array of forces

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an array of forces" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a variety of influences, powers, or elements that are acting together in a particular context. Example: "The success of the project was due to an array of forces, including teamwork, innovation, and strong leadership."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Maintaining channels with an array of forces has proven a cornerstone of Qatar's policy.

The New York Times

During the next few weeks, an array of forces helpful to Broad became involved in the MOCA crisis.

The New Yorker

The president built a muscular campaign organization and used a strong financial advantage to hold off an array of forces that opposed his candidacy.

The New York Times

Many suspected the cycles might be caused by an array of forces, Dr. Gilg said, "but we were able to explain this cycle with only predation, and that was very surprising; it was very exciting".

The New York Times

No one claimed responsibility, and suspicion fell on an array of forces: Islamists (although religious authorities are said to have given their blessing to the school), social conservatives, people jealous of the school's success, collaborators with Israel.

The New York Times - Arts

The conflict pits the rebels, known as Houthis, against an array of forces, including supporters of Saudi-backed President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi, southern separatists, Islamic militants, and local and tribal militias.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

In order to improve the performance of the output signal a common synchronization approach is applied to an array of forced spintorque oscillators.

Mechatronics

Traditional force curves measure the force felt by the tip as it approaches and retracts from a point on the sample surface (i.e. tip-sample adhesion force), whereas force volume is an array of force curves over an extended sample area.

Composites Part B: Engineering

Gay rights and gay marriages are being driven by an array of social forces and institutions.

The New York Times

Efforts to restrict proprietary trading will run up against an array of formidable forces.

The New York Times

As they see it, an array of malevolent forces have combined to thwart them.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an array of forces", ensure the context clearly identifies the individual forces at play or provides sufficient detail to understand their combined impact. This enhances clarity and avoids vagueness.

Common error

Avoid using "an array of forces" as a catch-all phrase without specifying the specific forces involved. This can weaken your argument and leave the reader without a clear understanding of the influences you're describing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an array of forces" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It denotes a collection of interacting influences or powers, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples where it describes factors impacting political situations, scientific phenomena, or conflict dynamics.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an array of forces" is a versatile phrase used to describe a multitude of influences acting together. It is grammatically correct and commonly found in news, scientific, and formal contexts. While the phrase itself is well-established, it's important to ensure clarity by specifying or contextualizing the forces involved. Ludwig examples confirm its wide applicability, but also highlight the need for precision in its usage. As such, writers should aim for a balance between conciseness and detailed explanations when employing this phrase, ensuring their audience understands the specific factors at play.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a multitude of influences

Emphasizes a large number of influences, similar to 'an array' but with a stronger sense of quantity.

a host of powers

Highlights the active influence of the forces, focusing on their capacity to act.

a complex of factors

Focuses on the intricate interrelation of the elements involved, suggesting a more systematic perspective.

a combination of elements

Highlights the combined action, with a neutral sense of the individual properties of the elements.

a network of dynamics

Emphasizes the dynamic interactions within the set of forces, depicting a web of relationships.

a convergence of pressures

Highlights that different forms of pressure are coming together.

a spectrum of effects

Suggests that the forces are on a scale or gradient from one extreme to another.

a confluence of influences

Implies a merging or flowing together of distinct influences into a single outcome.

a tapestry of factors

Conveys a sense of intricacy and interwoven qualities, much like a woven tapestry.

a coalition of powers

Conveys a sense of collaborative effort among distinct powerful entities.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "an array of forces" in a sentence?

To use "an array of forces" effectively, specify the forces involved to provide context and clarity. For example, "The economic recovery was driven by an array of forces including increased consumer spending, lower interest rates, and government investment".

What phrases can I use instead of "an array of forces"?

Alternatives to "an array of forces" include "a multitude of influences", "a host of powers", or "a complex of factors" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to list the forces individually rather than using "an array of forces"?

Whether to list the forces individually or use "an array of forces" depends on the context. If the individual forces are important and distinct, listing them provides more detail. If the overall impact is more important than the individual forces, using "an array of forces" can be more concise.

What's the difference between "an array of forces" and "a range of forces"?

"An array of forces" and "a range of forces" are similar, but "an array" suggests a more diverse collection, while "a range" implies a spectrum or continuum. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize variety or gradation.