during a reading

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "during a reading" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the time period when someone is engaged in reading, whether it be a book, article, or any other text. Example: "I often find myself lost in thought during a reading, reflecting on the themes presented by the author."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Professional actors have a go at 10 different scripts during a reading festival.

The New York Times

The violins strummed like guitars during a reading about cowboys in Kansas.

The New York Times - Arts

As Mr. Yevtushenko recalled the 1972 attack, five Ukrainians threw him off a stage during a reading in St . Paul

The New York Times

He also detailed that, during a reading of the script, he almost pulled Bruce Dern's arm out of its socket because he was so nervous.

Independent

We happened to arrive during a reading the Sicilian author Lugli Bernardi, and we all enjoyed Kursaal Kalhesa's speciality liqueur coffees, or Café Corretto, as it's better known to the Italians.

The Guardian - Travel

"I am satisfied beyond a reasonable doubt that a terrorist group existed," Justice John R. Sproat of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice said during a reading of his judgment that lasted about one hour.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

He came to their attention during a read-through of the script.

The New York Times

You learn something during a read-through, which of course we didn't have on "The Avengers" because I didn't actually have the actors in the same room until about halfway through the movie.

The New York Times

As someone who has used whiteboard paint recently with middle schoolers, I can echo his plug: it is truly exciting to pause during a read-aloud and ask students to illustrate what they think a character looks like based on the author's description; to guess definitions of words; or to make predictions about what might happen next.

The New York Times

He also voices Emperor Palpatine having earned the part during a read-through of the script during development.

Wikipedia

But not too deep, or so deep that you have to rest a dictionary on your belly during a read.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "during a reading" to clearly indicate that an event or action occurs within the time frame of someone reading a text. It provides a specific temporal context for the described event.

Common error

Avoid using "during a reading" when you actually mean a public recital or performance. A "reading" refers to the act of engaging with text, while a "recital" is a public performance. Make sure the context matches the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "during a reading" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun by specifying the time frame in which an action occurs. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. This is evident in examples like "He almost pulled Bruce Dern's arm out of its socket during a reading of the script."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "during a reading" is a grammatically sound and commonly used prepositional phrase that indicates an event occurs while someone is reading. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. It is most frequently found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, and its usage spans from neutral to slightly formal registers. When using the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the intended temporal relationship, distinguishing it from similar phrases such as "at a reading", which specifies a public event. Remember to clearly emphasize the time frame in which an action occurs. The most suitable alternative includes "while reading" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

while reading

Replaces the preposition "during" with "while", creating a more concise temporal connection.

as one reads

Emphasizes the act of reading as the event unfolds.

in the course of reading

Highlights the progression of the reading activity.

upon reading

Indicates something happens immediately after or as a result of reading.

when engaged in reading

Focuses on the state of being involved in the act of reading.

throughout the reading

Implies that the event occurs from the beginning to the end of the reading.

while perusing

Uses a more formal word for reading, "perusing", suggesting a careful and thorough reading.

in the middle of reading

Emphasizes that something occurs at an intermediate point of the reading activity.

as I am reading

Highlights the personal experience of reading.

at the time of reading

Focuses on the specific moment when the reading is taking place.

FAQs

How can I use "during a reading" in a sentence?

Use "during a reading" to specify when something occurs while someone is actively engaged in reading. For example, "I often make notes "during a reading" to better understand the text".

What are some alternatives to "during a reading"?

Alternatives include "while reading", "as one reads", or "in the course of reading". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is it more appropriate to say "during a reading" or "while reading"?

Both "during a reading" and "while reading" are grammatically correct and can often be used interchangeably. "During a reading" might be preferred for more formal contexts, but "while reading" is generally more concise.

What's the difference between "during a reading" and "at a reading"?

"During a reading" refers to the period when someone is actively reading text. "At a reading" typically implies attending a public event where someone is performing a reading aloud.