covering multiple decades

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "covering multiple decades" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing topics, events, or trends that span a significant period of time, typically involving at least two or more decades. Example: "The documentary provides a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, covering multiple decades of style evolution."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Last week, Aircell began offering a 24-hour pass for $12.95, covering multiple flights.

The New York Times

Housing groups and housing officials say definitive data covering multiple regions of the country are scarce.

The Washington Post

One potential issue with using this index is temperature variation in nations covering multiple latitudes.

Nature

In addition, try presenting several proposals that you value similarly, each covering multiple interests.

Harvard University

The letters were written in journal style, covering multiple dates and places.

Harvard University

Haurwitz also owns several patents covering multiple CRISPR-based technologies.

TechCrunch

There are multiple plan options based needs with 10% discount given for covering multiple pets.

TechCrunch

They are big boxes, covering multiple floors with maintenance being a constant.

Forbes

The brand has diverse portfolio covering multiple price band category helping it expand further in volume.

Forbes

They signal to Google that your content is holistic, covering multiple angles of your topic.

Forbes

KKR manages assets through a variety of investment funds and accounts covering multiple asset classes, mostly private equity.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience. While suitable for formal and academic writing, in more casual contexts, simpler alternatives like "spanning many years" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "covering multiple decades" when a more precise time frame is available. If you know the exact number of decades, use that instead (e.g., "covering three decades" is better than "covering multiple decades" if the period is precisely 30 years).

Linguistic Context

The phrase "covering multiple decades" functions as a descriptive element, typically used to modify a noun by specifying the timeframe or scope of the subject being discussed. It denotes a period that includes at least two decades.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "covering multiple decades" is a useful descriptor for indicating a significant time span in various contexts. Although Ludwig indicates it is grammatically correct, the phrase is not frequently used, so consider using alternative phrases if needed. It is generally appropriate for formal writing and can be used to describe the scope of historical analyses, research, or documentaries that span at least two decades. While it is not inherently formal, it is more common in written rather than spoken contexts. Being precise about the number of decades, when possible, is advisable for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spanning several decades

Replaces "covering" with "spanning", emphasizing the period of time involved.

encompassing numerous decades

Uses "encompassing" to highlight the inclusion of many decades within a particular scope.

across multiple decades

Emphasizes movement or progression through different decades.

over many decades

A simpler alternative focusing on the extended period of time.

extending through multiple decades

Highlights the prolonged duration or reach across several decades.

ranging over several decades

Suggests a scope or spectrum that includes many decades.

throughout numerous decades

Similar to 'over many decades', but emphasizes the continuous nature of the period.

for several decades

Directly states the duration without explicitly mentioning "covering".

lasting multiple decades

Emphasizes the duration or persistence over a long time.

involving multiple decades

Focuses on the participation or inclusion of different decades.

FAQs

How can I use "covering multiple decades" in a sentence?

Use "covering multiple decades" to describe a subject, event, or trend that spans a significant period of time, typically more than two decades. For instance, "The historical analysis is "spanning multiple decades", offering a broad perspective on the topic".

What are some alternatives to "covering multiple decades"?

You can use alternatives such as "spanning several decades", "over many years", or "encompassing numerous decades" depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "covering multiple decades" or "covering many decades"?

Both "covering multiple decades" and "covering many decades" are grammatically correct and understandable. However, "covering multiple decades" specifies that at least two decades are involved, while "covering many decades" implies a potentially longer, less defined period. The choice depends on the level of precision needed.

What kind of subjects is "covering multiple decades" generally used for?

The phrase "covering multiple decades" is commonly used to describe the scope of research, historical studies, documentaries, or biographies that examine trends, events, or developments over an extended period. The subject matter often involves significant changes or patterns observed across these timeframes.