are spread over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are spread over" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the distribution or arrangement of something across a certain area or time period. Example: "The resources are spread over several regions to ensure equitable access for all communities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The five Vermeers are spread over as many rooms.

The New York Times - Arts

These procurement programmes are spread over long lead times.

The Economist

Also, too much sweet sauces are spread over the fish and meat".

The New York Times

Engineering costs are spread over more vehicles.

Forbes

First, sheets of Mylar film are spread over the mold.

The New York Times - Sports

So, we are spread over half a kilometre.

The Guardian

Meanwhile, the historical scenes are spread over about 10 years.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

His vines are spread over 15 different sites.

The New York Times - Food

They are spread over three arms of the empire.

The New York Times

The five calm and contemporary rooms are spread over three floors.

The Guardian - Travel

This spring, the eight premieres, all repeated through June 21, are spread over the season.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are spread over" to clearly indicate the distribution or coverage of something across a defined area or time frame. For example, "The responsibilities are spread over the team members evenly."

Common error

Ensure that the subject is plural when using "are spread over". A common mistake is to use a singular subject, which requires "is spread over". For example, avoid "The responsibility are spread over the team".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are spread over" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating how something is distributed or extended across an area or a period. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Examples demonstrate its usage in various contexts, from geographical areas to abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

41%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are spread over" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe the distribution or extent of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, and our analysis reveals its prevalence across various domains, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While suitable for both formal and informal writing, remember to ensure subject-verb agreement and avoid using it when a different distribution-related verb is more suitable. With alternatives like "are distributed across" and "are scattered throughout" available, you can precisely convey your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are distributed across

Focuses on the act of distributing rather than the state of being spread.

are scattered throughout

Emphasizes a random or uneven distribution.

are dispersed among

Highlights the action of dispersing, implying a wider scattering.

are extended across

Suggests a stretching or continuation over a distance or area.

are positioned over

Focuses on placement rather than distribution.

are diffused through

Implies a gradual spreading, often used for abstract concepts.

are propagated over

Suggests a spreading or transmission, often used in technical contexts.

are overlaid onto

Focuses on one thing being placed on top of another.

are propagated through

Implies a journey through something, such as signals through a medium.

are allocated among

Highlights the assigning of something among different recipients or categories.

FAQs

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

The phrase "are spread over" indicates the distribution or extent of something across an area or time. For example, "The costs "are spread over" several years" or "The branches "are spread over" the garden".

What's a more formal way to say "are spread over"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "are distributed across" or "are allocated throughout" to maintain a professional tone. For example, "Resources "are distributed across" multiple departments".

Is there a difference between "are spread over" and "are scattered across"?

Yes, while both indicate distribution, "are spread over" implies a more even or intentional distribution, whereas "are scattered across" suggests a random or uneven distribution. Consider "The seeds "are scattered across" the field" versus "The workload "are spread over" the team members".

What prepositions can I use with "are spread" other than "over"?

While "over" is common, you can also use "across", "throughout", or "among" depending on the context. "Are spread across" suggests a broader area, "are spread throughout" indicates distribution within, and "are spread among" highlights individual recipients.