in multiple directions

USAGE SUMMARY

"in multiple directions" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a multitude of different paths that something can take. For example, "The project can develop in multiple directions, depending on the resources available."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

There are slopes in multiple directions.

The New York Times

Voting intention flows in multiple directions.

The Guardian

Multiple people paced the room in multiple directions.

The New Yorker

Computing typically involves tapping in multiple directions.

Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology

Aiming to be madcap, it dashes off in multiple directions.

The New York Times - Arts

The Meadow Fire has progressed rapidly and in multiple directions.

University of California, Berkeley

Already, Labour's traditional base has fragmented in multiple directions: to the SNP, Ukip and the Greens.

The Guardian - Opinion

Like his conversational style, Schumer's approach to politics can wend in multiple directions.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

The other five sins, handled more traditionally, all go off in multiple directions.

The New York Times - Arts

Eleven defenders can move in multiple directions, leading to a maddening guessing game for the quarterback.

The New York Times

By its nature, this is an exhibition that goes in multiple directions, here and there providing germane relationships.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in multiple directions" when describing scenarios where movement, influence, or development occurs along several different paths or axes simultaneously. For example, when illustrating how a company's marketing strategy is expanding across various platforms and demographics.

Common error

Ensure the context clarifies whether "in multiple directions" refers to literal spatial directions, abstract paths of development, or metaphorical lines of influence. Without clear context, the phrase can lack precision and dilute the intended message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in multiple directions" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to describe the manner or direction of an action. As Ludwig AI points out, it specifies that an action or movement occurs along various paths.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

20%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in multiple directions" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to describe actions or processes extending along several paths or axes. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. While suitable for various contexts, from news reporting to scientific discourse, ensure the surrounding text clarifies the specific 'directions' to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "in various directions" or "along multiple vectors" may offer nuanced precision depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in various directions

Emphasizes variety in orientation but is less emphatic about the number of directions.

in different directions

Focuses on the difference between directions rather than the multiplicity.

in several directions

Indicates a limited number of directions, less broad than "in multiple directions".

in numerous directions

Similar to "in multiple directions", but emphasizes a large quantity.

along multiple vectors

More formal and technical, suggesting a mathematical or scientific context.

in diverse directions

Highlights the diversity of the directions rather than their quantity.

spreading in many directions

Focuses on the spreading action rather than just the multiplicity of directions.

every which way

Informal, implies disorder or lack of control in the spreading of movement.

in all directions

Emphasizes totality, covering every possible direction without exception.

radiating outwards

Suggests movement spreading from a central point.

FAQs

How can I use "in multiple directions" in a sentence?

You can use "in multiple directions" to describe movement, growth, or influence occurring along various paths simultaneously. For example, "The company's marketing efforts expanded "in multiple directions", targeting different demographics and platforms."

What are some alternatives to "in multiple directions"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in various directions", "in several directions", or "along multiple vectors", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "in multiple directions"?

While grammatically correct, "in multiple directions" can be vague if the context does not clearly indicate what these 'directions' refer to. Ensure the context provides enough information to understand the specific paths or axes being described.

What's the difference between "in multiple directions" and "in all directions"?

"In all directions" implies coverage of every possible path or orientation, whereas ""in multiple directions"" suggests several distinct paths or orientations but not necessarily every single one. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize totality or distinctness.