in a steady barrage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a steady barrage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a continuous and overwhelming series of events, actions, or stimuli, often in a negative context. Example: "The team faced a steady barrage of criticism after their recent performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

He and Rossi used ethnic stereotypes that were common at the time in a steady barrage of gags.

The Washington Post

The primary results suggested that Republican voters had believed what Mr. Bush and his conservative allies had told them about Mr. McCain in a steady barrage of television and radio commercials and mass mailings.

The New York Times

Matthews knows that the best way to finesse a laugh is to throw it away, and thanks to Balzac and the capable Cornthwaite, the wit comes in a steady barrage.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Mr. Finkelstein was considered a master at developing simple campaign messages, which were repeated in such a steady barrage of negative television commercials that he was sometimes called the "merchant of venom". As much as anyone, he was responsible for making the word "liberal" a political slur.

The Washington Post

The poll was conducted three months after the killing of three police officers in Baton Rouge and five officers in Dallas in July and a steady barrage of headlines spotlighting Black Lives Matter, along with allegations of excessive force by police and several high-profile killings.

The New York Times

Even as the C.I.A. expands its role in Afghanistan, it is also playing a greater role in quasi-military operations elsewhere, using drone aircraft to launch a steady barrage of missile strikes in Pakistan and sending more operatives to Yemen to assist local officials in their attempts to roll back Al Qaeda's momentum in that country.

The New York Times

Republicans have kept up a steady barrage of criticism, in speeches and at hearings.

The New York Times - Health

Here again, Congressional leaders said Mr. Reagan was not in tune with the budget priorities of most Americans, who had been subjected to a steady barrage of reports about waste and inefficiency in the Pentagon.

The New York Times

Several times, eager U.S. hands reached in to change the head of activities in Japan, and crisp memos and phone calls kept up a steady barrage of challenges to the unlucky soul who happened to be in the hot seat at the moment.

Harvard Business Review

This shift, along with a steady barrage of medical studies and changes in U.S. government labeling requirements, has led to greater consumption, lower prices and further acceptance of vegetarian foods.

Forbes

Cotto (33-1, 27 knockouts) landed a steady barrage of head and body shots to drop Jennings twice in the fourth round and once in the fifth before the fight was stopped.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in a steady barrage" to describe situations where there is a continuous and overwhelming flow of information, events, or actions. It is particularly effective when emphasizing a sense of being bombarded or overwhelmed.

Common error

Avoid using "in a steady barrage" in situations that do not involve an overwhelming or potentially negative experience. Opt for more neutral phrases like "steady stream" or "continuous flow" when describing positive or benign situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a steady barrage" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to describe the manner in which something occurs. As Ludwig AI explains, it denotes a continuous and overwhelming series of events or stimuli. For example, "criticism in a steady barrage".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in a steady barrage" describes a continuous and often overwhelming series of events or actions. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English, often conveying a sense of being bombarded. It appears most frequently in News & Media contexts. When writing, use this phrase to emphasize the intensity and overwhelming nature of the situation, but be mindful of the tone, as overuse in neutral situations can be inappropriate. Alternatives like "constant stream" or "continuous flow" might be more suitable in those cases.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

constant bombardment

Similar in intensity but focuses on the act of bombarding.

constant stream

Focuses on the continuous flow, less emphasis on the forceful or overwhelming aspect.

persistent deluge

Emphasizes the overwhelming quantity, like a flood.

relentless flow

Emphasizes the persistent and unstoppable nature of the flow.

unremitting stream

Stresses the ceaseless and persistent quality, similar to relentless.

continuous flow

Highlights the uninterrupted nature, omitting the intensity of "barrage".

incessant outpouring

Highlights the continuous and abundant release or flow.

unrelenting succession

Focuses on the continuous sequence without pause.

never-ending series

Conveys the endless quality, but not necessarily the intensity.

sustained assault

More aggressive, implying a forceful and prolonged attack.

FAQs

How can I use "in a steady barrage" in a sentence?

Use "in a steady barrage" to describe a continuous and overwhelming series of events or actions. For instance, "The company faced "a steady barrage of" criticism after the product launch".

What are some alternatives to "in a steady barrage"?

You can use alternatives like "constant stream", "continuous flow", or "relentless flow" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "in a steady barrage" in formal writing?

Yes, it is appropriate, but consider the context. The phrase conveys intensity and overwhelming force, so ensure it aligns with the tone of your formal writing. If neutrality is desired, consider gentler alternatives like "consistent flow".

What's the difference between "in a steady barrage" and "in a constant stream"?

"In a steady barrage" implies a more overwhelming and potentially negative experience, suggesting being bombarded. "In a constant stream" simply indicates a continuous flow, without necessarily conveying the same intensity.