diffusion of knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

"diffusion of knowledge" is a grammatically correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It refers to the spread or dissemination of knowledge among a population or group. Example: The internet has greatly facilitated the diffusion of knowledge, allowing people from all over the world to access information and learn about different cultures.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The Carnegie Corporation's explicit goal was to "promote the advancement and diffusion of knowledge and understanding".

The Economist

It happens best in open societies that invest in the creation and free diffusion of knowledge where the new is a matter of celebration.

The Guardian - Business

One hurdle on the road to the diffusion of knowledge was the Copyright Term Extension Act, passed in 1998.

The New York Times

He declared at the National Zoo last April that the Smithsonian's credo -- "the increase and diffusion of knowledge" -- articulated by its founder, the British scientist James Smithson, and revered by Smithsonian researchers, "was too vague".

The New York Times

Computers, modern telecommunications and the Internet all reduce communications costs and break down geographical borders, so they are bound to speed up the global diffusion of knowledge.

The Economist

Believing that traditional Islamic values had been eroded by Western knowledge based on erroneous assumptions, numerous Islamic scholars called for the creation and diffusion of knowledge within an Islamic framework.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Daniel Webster, eulogizing Thomas Jefferson and John Adams, who both died on July 4, 1826, spoke of "an unconquerable spirit of free inquiry... and a diffusion of knowledge throughout the community" as two of the fundamental requirements of American democracy.

The New York Times

Under terms of Smithson's will, the whole estate went "to the United States of America, to found at Washington, under the name of the Smithsonian Institution, an establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge".

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Changing people's perception of who we are will be the measure of success for these ads," Ms. Kolb said, noting the institution's stated goal of "the increase and diffusion of knowledge".

The New York Times - Arts

Importantly, he notes, the equalising power of the diffusion of knowledge is closely linked to state policy: to investment in infrastructure, education, research, and a regulatory environment conducive to entrepreneurship and competition.

The Economist

"Ask yourself or the witnesses whether a district can provide for the general diffusion of knowledge without iPads or teacher aides or brand-new facilities," she told the judge.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the impact of technology on society, use "diffusion of knowledge" to highlight how access to information changes social structures and individual opportunities.

Common error

Avoid using "diffusion of knowledge" when the context implies an overwhelming amount of information rather than its effective spread and understanding. Instead, consider terms like "information overload" or "data deluge" in such scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "diffusion of knowledge" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It commonly acts as the subject or object of a sentence, denoting the process by which knowledge spreads or is disseminated. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a grammatically correct way to denote the spread or dissemination of knowledge among a population or group.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

39%

News & Media

39%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "diffusion of knowledge" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase referring to the spread of information and understanding. Ludwig AI validates its correctness, and the numerous examples confirm its prevalence across diverse sources. It commonly appears in formal contexts such as news media, science, and encyclopedias. While synonyms like "knowledge dissemination" and "spread of information" exist, "diffusion of knowledge" maintains a distinct emphasis on the widespread distribution of expertise.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

knowledge dissemination

A more formal and direct synonym, reversing the order of the words but retaining the core meaning.

knowledge transfer

A more concise term that highlights the movement of knowledge from one entity to another.

dissemination of learning

Replaces "knowledge" with "learning", emphasizing the process of acquiring knowledge.

spread of information

Focuses more broadly on the dissemination of information, which can include knowledge, but isn't limited to it.

propagation of understanding

Emphasizes the growth and spread of comprehension, rather than just factual information.

transmission of expertise

Highlights the transfer of specialized skills and knowledge.

circulation of ideas

Focuses on the movement and sharing of concepts and thoughts.

information sharing

A broader term that encompasses the exchange of data and facts, not just structured knowledge.

expansion of awareness

Focuses on the increase in understanding and consciousness of a particular subject.

unfolding of wisdom

Emphasizes the gradual revelation and understanding of profound insights.

FAQs

How can I use "diffusion of knowledge" in a sentence?

You can use "diffusion of knowledge" to describe the spread of information and understanding within a community, such as, "The internet has greatly accelerated the "diffusion of knowledge" across the globe."

What are some synonyms for "diffusion of knowledge"?

Alternatives to "diffusion of knowledge" include "knowledge dissemination", "spread of information", and "knowledge transfer". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "diffusion of knowledge" a formal or informal term?

"Diffusion of knowledge" is generally considered a formal term suitable for academic, professional, and news-related contexts. Simpler alternatives may be more appropriate for informal settings.

What factors influence the "diffusion of knowledge" in a society?

Factors influencing the "diffusion of knowledge" include access to education, technological infrastructure, language barriers, and social networks. Public policies also play a significant role.