array of shades

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "array of shades" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a variety or range of colors or tones, often in artistic or design contexts. Example: "The artist's palette featured an array of shades, from vibrant reds to soft pastels, creating a stunning visual impact."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

We both come in a dazzling array of shades.

The Guardian - Opinion

And, indeed, like rainbow sprinkles on a sundae, bright pastel shingles in an array of shades adorned the sides of grand old buildings -- many with turret-like bay windows and stately porticos -- on block after block.

The New York Times

Most hybrid types grow to be between 12 to 18 inches tall, with strong dark green leaves and big flowers in an array of shades so luminous that they look almost unreal in catalog pictures.

The New York Times

With its vast array of shades – from almost ivory pale, through stripy scarlets, to near black – such a salad is so simple and so beautiful that I really can't think of any dish in my arsenal that's capable of seriously challenging it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It also comes in an array of shades, including deeper and richer tones for women of color.

Huffington Post

This MAC gem comes in an array of shades, can be used on very dry or oily skin types and is flexible enough to provide light to medium coverage.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

As winter hits its stride, designers are offering chic and cozy jackets in a wide array of shapes, shades and styles.

The New York Times

There is also plenty of stylish outdoor furniture and a wide array of window shades and blinds.

The New York Times

Although we've had an array of darker shades for years now – thanks, mainly to MAC and Nars, but more recently Illamasqua, Laura Mercier and Sleek – it's really been the last year (since YSL launched their darker Touch Eclat shades in 2011 in fact) that the entire market for darker skins has shifted in our favour.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The restaurant sells more than 300 varieties of tequila and 27 of mezcal, and excellent margaritas are downed by the glass or the pitcher in a dizzying array of flavors and shades.

The New York Times

In another striking work, Pink Foliage, intertwining vines and shrubs in an array of sumptuous garden shades illustrate her fondness for lush vegetation and botanical motifs.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing visual elements, use "array of shades" to emphasize a wide selection of colors or tones within a specific range. For example, 'The sunset painted an "array of shades" across the sky, from fiery oranges to soft pinks.'

Common error

Avoid using "array of shades" metaphorically when referring to abstract concepts. It's more appropriate for describing actual color variations than, say, a range of opinions or emotions. For abstract concepts, you can use phrases like "range of options", "variety of perspectives", or "spectrum of ideas".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "array of shades" is as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a preposition or a subject complement. It describes a collection or range of colors. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

31%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "array of shades" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a range of colors or tones. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While not extremely common, it is appropriate for various contexts, especially in news, science and general descriptions. When writing, use it to effectively depict visual diversity, but avoid overuse in abstract contexts. Consider alternatives like "spectrum of colors" or "palette of colors" for similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spectrum of colors

Focuses on the range of colors present.

range of hues

Uses a more technical term for colors, implying a precise selection.

palette of colors

Emphasizes the artistic aspect of color selection.

assortment of tones

Highlights the variation in lightness and darkness.

selection of tints

Specifically refers to lighter versions of colors.

gradation of colors

Describes a smooth transition between different colors.

gamut of colors

Implies the full range of colors that can be produced or perceived.

collection of colors

A more general term for a group of colors.

multitude of colors

Emphasizes the large quantity of colors present.

diversity of colors

Highlights the variety and difference among the colors.

FAQs

What does "array of shades" mean?

The phrase "array of shades" refers to a collection or range of different colors or tones, often used to describe visual elements or artistic palettes.

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

You can use "array of shades" to describe anything that has a variety of colors. For instance, "The garden featured an "array of shades", from vibrant reds to calming blues."

What can I say instead of "array of shades"?

You can use alternatives like "spectrum of colors", "range of hues", or "palette of colors" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a wide array of shades"?

Yes, using "a wide array of shades" is grammatically correct and emphasizes the extensive variety of colors or tones.