in a spectrum

USAGE SUMMARY

"in a spectrum" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a range or continuum of something. For example: - "The opinions on the issue of gun control fall in a spectrum from strict regulation to complete freedom." - "His emotions spanned the entire spectrum from anger to sadness." - "The color spectrum of the painting was breathtaking, with hues of blue, green, and purple blending together seamlessly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The cleverly packaged kits contain a selection of mini lip tints, in a spectrum of shades.

The New York Times - Style

These frequencies show up as lines (dark for absorption; bright for emission) in a spectrum.

The Economist

NMR absorbances appear in a spectrum as a series of sharp spikes or peaks.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is used for exploring the distribution of intensity of radiation in a spectrum.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The dancers wore tights in a spectrum of yellow-bronze-rust colors that complemented the sculptures' oxidized surfaces.

The New York Times - Arts

Currently, though, Verizon and many other wireless companies are in a spectrum standoff with the federal government.

The New York Times

His writing falls somewhere in a spectrum between William Burroughs and JP Donleavy, a sort of narco-blarney.

The Guardian - Books

They must include an official "NYC Votes" logo, a cube-like emblem in a spectrum of colors.

The New York Times

The Allegra leather envelope handbag by Vivre folds perfectly flat for effortless weekend packing and comes in a spectrum of colors ($195 at www.vivre.com).com

The New York Times

Ripe, succulent enough to soak your fingers at first bite, and Bing cherry sweet, they come in countless varieties in a spectrum of colors.

The New York Times - Food

When sunlight fills her office, it turns into a prismatic fire, flashing, winking, glowing, sparkling in a spectrum of colors, distracting people, amazing them.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in a spectrum" to accurately convey a continuous range of possibilities, qualities, or values, especially when discussing complex topics or nuanced differences.

Common error

Avoid using "in a spectrum" when referring to discrete, unrelated items; this phrase implies a continuous range or gradual transition, not just a collection of distinct things.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a spectrum" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb by describing the extent, scope, or range of something. It indicates a continuous distribution or gradation of values or characteristics, consistent with Ludwig AI's analysis and the numerous examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in a spectrum" is a grammatically sound and versatile prepositional phrase used to describe a range or continuum of something, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It appears frequently across varied sources, including news, scientific journals, and encyclopedias. While applicable in numerous contexts, its strength lies in accurately portraying continuous variations or gradations. When writing, use "in a spectrum" to convey nuanced differences and avoid its misuse with discrete, unrelated items. Consider alternatives like ""in a range"" or ""within a variety"" if a less specific or more general term is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a range

Replaces "spectrum" with the more general term "range", indicating a series between limits.

across a breadth

Substitutes "spectrum" with "breadth", emphasizing the wide scope or extent of something.

within a variety

Uses "variety" instead of "spectrum", highlighting the diversity of elements.

in a gamut

Employs "gamut" to suggest a complete or extensive range.

through a continuum

Replaces "spectrum" with "continuum", focusing on the gradual transition between elements.

spanning a scope

Uses "scope" to indicate the extent or area covered.

covering an array

Highlights the structured or organized arrangement of elements.

exhibiting a scale

Indicates a graded series or system.

displaying a gradation

Focuses on the gradual progression from one extreme to another.

encompassing a series

Suggests a sequential arrangement or order.

FAQs

How can I use "in a spectrum" in a sentence?

You can use "in a spectrum" to describe a range of possibilities, qualities, or values. For example, "The candidates' opinions on climate change fall "in a range" from strong action to complete denial."

What are some alternatives to "in a spectrum"?

Some alternatives include "in a range", "within a variety", or "across a breadth", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "in an spectrum"?

No, the correct form is "in a spectrum". The word "spectrum" starts with a consonant sound, so it requires the indefinite article "a" instead of "an".

What's the difference between "in a spectrum" and "in a range"?

"In a spectrum" often implies a more continuous and nuanced gradation, while ""in a range"" can refer to a broader, less specifically defined set of possibilities. The choice depends on the level of precision required.