array of food

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "array of food" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a variety or selection of different food items presented together, often in a buffet or feast context. Example: "The wedding reception featured an impressive array of food, including gourmet appetizers, main courses, and decadent desserts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

I, too, called an array of food suppliers.

The New Yorker

There was Latin American music and an international array of food.

The Guardian

Picnics are permitted, alcohol is not, and an array of food will be available for purchase.

The New York Times

At a meeting this week, Pakistani intelligence officials provided an array of food and tea for their guerrilla guests.

The New York Times

The plan calls for testing an array of food products for acrylamide levels in the next year.

The New York Times - Science

Cost of admission helps cover patio rental, drink specials, and an array of food (vegan options included).

Columbia University

Until it can be repaired, an array of food carts near the entrance will take up the slack.

The New York Times

The Agriculture Department oversees a vast array of food assistance programs, all of which were cut in the House bill.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

A child-friendly food festival takes over Citi Pond at Bryant Park in Midtown Manhattan from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, with an array of food-related activities promoting healthful living.

The New York Times

The menu at Establishment has been engineered to reinforce students' knowledge of various cooking methods as well as increase their experience working with an array of food-production tools and equipment, while simultaneously providing guests with an enticing, eclectic mix of dishes inspired by a variety of different cuisines.

Cornell University

Most people don't want to admit they eat at Golden Corral, despite the fact that it has an undeniably dazzling array of food enough to satisfy the secret cravings and particularities of any sort of eater.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "array of food", consider the context. It best describes situations with a visually diverse and plentiful selection, such as buffets, banquets, or market displays.

Common error

Avoid using "array of food" when describing a very limited or monotonous food selection. The phrase implies variety and abundance, which would be misleading in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "array of food" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a collection or assortment of food items. Ludwig confirms the appropriate usage across a range of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "array of food" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a diverse selection of food items. As shown by Ludwig, it frequently appears in news articles, academic papers, and general discussions about food. While versatile, it's best used when genuinely representing variety and abundance. Alternatives like "selection of dishes" or "variety of food items" can be used for slight nuances in meaning or formality. Ludwig AI validates the phrase's consistent and appropriate application across various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

selection of dishes

Emphasizes a curated collection, differing from the broader sense of "array".

variety of food items

Highlights the diversity of individual food choices available.

assortment of edibles

A more formal and slightly less common way to describe a range of foods.

spread of food

Focuses on the visual presentation of the food, especially in a large display.

range of cuisine

Highlights the variety in types of dishes or cooking styles.

buffet of choices

Specifically refers to a self-serve selection of food.

feast of options

Implies a lavish and abundant selection of food.

spectrum of flavors

Focuses on the taste profiles and sensory experiences of the food.

food offering

A generic term for the food provided, in general or in a specific occasion.

culinary collection

Indicates a set of dishes thoughtfully chosen, with a more refined tone.

FAQs

How can I use "array of food" in a sentence?

You can use "array of food" to describe a diverse selection of dishes. For example, "The restaurant offered an impressive array of food, from seafood to vegetarian options."

What's a good alternative to "array of food"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "selection of dishes", "variety of food items", or "spread of food".

Is "array of food" formal or informal?

"Array of food" is generally considered a neutral term suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, more formal alternatives like "assortment of edibles" might be preferred in highly formal settings.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "array of food"?

Avoid using "array of food" if the selection is limited or lacks variety. Using the term in such instances can be misleading.