are spread across

USAGE SUMMARY

"are spread across" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe how something (such as ideas, people, or items) is distributed amongst a number of different places or areas. For example: "The volunteers are spread across the city, working to make sure everyone has access to essential services."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The asylum-seekers are spread across Germany.

The Economist

Now they are spread across the world.

The New Yorker

They are spread across a large area.

The Guardian - Opinion

The photographs are spread across the table.

The New York Times

The sites to be redeveloped are spread across Harlem.

The New York Times

Currently, 84 students are spread across 21 schools.

The New York Times

The winners and losers are spread across the spectrum.

The Guardian - Opinion

The various social groups are spread across the country.

The Economist

They are spread across all continents, and 45 million of them have been inventoried so far.

The New York Times - Arts

Pequot's holdings are spread across 22 funds, several of which maintain an unusual autonomy.

The New York Times

The communities are spread across the country, from Reading to Battlefield, Aberdeen to Norwich.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are spread across" to vividly describe the distribution of tangible or intangible entities over a geographical area, demographic group, or abstract space. This phrase is especially effective when emphasizing the extent or scope of this distribution.

Common error

Avoid using "are spread across" with singular subjects. The verb "are" requires a plural subject. Instead of "The problem are spread across the department", use "The problems are spread across the department" or "The problem is spread throughout the department".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are spread across" functions as a verb phrase indicating distribution or allocation over a defined area, range, or group. It describes how something is dispersed or extended across multiple locations or entities. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

23%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are spread across" is a versatile and common expression used to describe the distribution of something over a defined area or among multiple entities. As Ludwig AI indicates, it’s grammatically sound and frequently found in diverse contexts like news, science, and formal communications. While versatile, writers should avoid using it with singular subjects. Alternatives such as "are distributed throughout" or "are scattered around" can be used to add nuance to your writing. Remember, the phrase maintains a neutral register, suitable for both formal and informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are distributed throughout

Replaces 'across' with 'throughout', indicating a more thorough distribution within the area.

are scattered around

Implies a less even distribution; items are randomly located within the area.

are dispersed among

Focuses on separating and distributing elements among different entities or locations.

are diffused through

Indicates spreading like a gas or liquid, implying gradual penetration.

are located within

Highlights the placement or existence of items inside a defined area.

are positioned across

Suggests a deliberate arrangement or placement over a specific area.

are strewn over

Similar to scattered, but often implies a more haphazard or careless distribution.

are prevalent within

Describes a widespread existence or common occurrence within a particular area.

are extended over

Emphasizes the reach or span that something covers across the given area.

are permeated throughout

Indicates that something is thoroughly spread and influencing every part of the area.

FAQs

How can I use "are spread across" in a sentence?

The phrase "are spread across" indicates distribution over an area. For example, "The responsibilities "are spread across" several teams" or "The stores "are spread across" multiple states".

What's the difference between "are spread across" and "are spread throughout"?

"Are spread across" generally implies distribution over a surface or a defined set of locations, while "are spread throughout" suggests distribution within the entirety of a volume or space. Using "across" implies a surface or a select area, while using "throughout" signals comprehensive distribution within.

What can I say instead of "are spread across"?

Alternatives include "are distributed throughout", "are scattered around", or "are dispersed among", depending on the specific context and desired nuance.

Is it correct to use "are spread across" when referring to abstract concepts?

Yes, "are spread across" can apply to abstract concepts as well as physical locations. For instance, you might say "The benefits "are spread across" all demographics" or "The responsibilities "are spread across" multiple teams".