an extensive array

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an extensive array" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a wide variety or a large number of items, options, or elements in a particular context. Example: "The museum features an extensive array of artifacts from ancient civilizations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is also an extensive array of hot and cold prepared foods.

The New York Times - Food

The Center has its own zebrafish facility as well as an extensive array of core facilities.

Yale University

After the cyanobacteria there appeared an extensive array of algae, molds, protozoans, plants, and animals.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"We found an extensive array... of information that had been downloaded and stored," said Detective Leading Senior Constable Brett Parker.

The Guardian

I was taken to a nearby trauma center and went through an extensive array of surgical procedures.

Harvard Business Review

What Mr. DeLuca had that other researchers didn't was an extensive array of copies of newspaper clippings laboriously gathered from microfilm collections.

The New York Times

But in a world with economies of unscale, we are empowered to take advantage of an extensive array of new, amazing services to build sustainable companies.

Harvard Business Review

Finally, some newer crimes, such as cybercrime, can be fought only by using an extensive array of technology that exceeds the scope of police technology proper.

Britannica

The United States continues to far outpace all potential rivals in military spending and maintains an extensive array of military bases and alliances across the Middle East.

The Washington Post

Our observations record a shift in depositional environments as a response to an extensive array of anthropogenic alterations.

Marine Geology

Recent results suggest that the mechanism depends on perturbations in lateral packing within an extensive array of receptors localized to patches at the cell poles.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an extensive array" when you want to emphasize the breadth and variety of options or items, rather than just the quantity.

Common error

Avoid using "an extensive array" in contexts where a simpler term like "many" or "several" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or verbose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an extensive array" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object or complement in a sentence. It modifies a noun to indicate a large and varied collection, as supported by examples found by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

32%

Academia

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an extensive array" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that effectively conveys the idea of a wide variety or a comprehensive collection. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is appropriate across various contexts, including news, academia, and science. While it's essential to avoid overuse in simpler contexts, the phrase remains a valuable tool for emphasizing the breadth and diversity of options or items. Alternatives such as "a wide range" or "a diverse collection" can provide similar meaning while avoiding repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a wide range

Replaces "extensive array" with a more general term for variety.

a broad selection

Similar to "a wide range", but emphasizes the act of choosing from a variety.

a diverse collection

Highlights the variety and heterogeneity of the items.

a comprehensive assortment

Indicates a complete and varied collection.

a considerable number

Focuses on the quantity rather than the variety.

a large compilation

Suggests a collection gathered from various sources.

a plentiful supply

Emphasizes abundance and availability.

a rich tapestry

Uses a metaphor to describe a complex and varied collection.

a vast accumulation

Highlights the size and amount of the collected items.

an impressive inventory

Suggests a detailed list of items, emphasizing their value.

FAQs

How can I use "an extensive array" in a sentence?

You can use "an extensive array" to describe a wide variety of options, items, or features. For example, "The software offers "an extensive array" of tools for photo editing."

What are some alternatives to "an extensive array"?

Alternatives include "a wide range", "a broad selection", or "a diverse collection" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "an extensive array" or "a wide range"?

Both phrases are correct, but "an extensive array" often implies a more detailed and comprehensive collection than "a wide range". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When should I avoid using the phrase "an extensive array"?

Avoid using "an extensive array" in informal contexts or when a simpler term like "many" or "several" would be more appropriate. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound pretentious.