is spread out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is spread out" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is distributed or arranged over a certain area or space. Example: "The picnic blanket is spread out on the grass, ready for us to enjoy our lunch."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The unit is spread out over three full floors, Nos.

The New York Times

The pain is spread out over a longer period.

The Economist

Then it is spread out in a baking tray.

The New Yorker

"The surfing community is spread out, but word gets around".

The New York Times

The capital city is spread out along the Suriname River.

Britannica

It's better if the risk is spread out over the whole world.

Yale University

Instead, the wit is spread out evenly between the various characters, who insult each other gratuitously.

The Economist

When everyone is spread out like that, the defense can't disguise its coverage.

The New Yorker

Those places are not more equal because the money is spread out more fairly.

The Economist

Now their work is spread out between more than 60 countries.

The Economist

Geography partly explains the difference: America is spread out, while European cities predate the car.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is spread out" to describe something that occupies a large area or is distributed over a wide range. For example, "The city is spread out along the coast."

Common error

Avoid using "is spread out" multiple times in close proximity within a paragraph. Opt for synonyms like "is distributed", "is scattered", or "is dispersed" to maintain variety and readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is spread out" functions primarily as a verb phrase, specifically a passive construction. It typically describes a state of being where something is distributed or extended over an area, space, or time. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

20%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is spread out" is a common and grammatically sound verb phrase used to describe the distribution or arrangement of something across space or time. As Ludwig confirms, it appears frequently in News & Media and scientific contexts. While versatile, avoid overuse in close proximity and choose synonyms to enhance writing clarity. Consider the subtle differences between alternatives like "is distributed" and "is scattered" to ensure precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is distributed

Focuses on the distribution aspect, implying a deliberate allocation.

is dispersed

Emphasizes scattering or moving away from a central point.

is scattered

Suggests a random or irregular arrangement.

is extended

Highlights the reach or span of something.

is arranged

Implies a deliberate and organized placement.

is laid out

Suggests a planned or designed arrangement, often for display.

is expanded

Focuses on the act of increasing in size or scope.

is diffused

Highlights gradual spreading or permeation.

is unfolded

Implies a revealing or progressive display.

is broadened

Suggests widening or increasing in range.

FAQs

How can I use "is spread out" in a sentence?

You can use "is spread out" to describe how something occupies a large area or exists over a wide distribution. For example, "The data "is spread out" over multiple spreadsheets, making analysis difficult."

What can I say instead of "is spread out"?

Alternatives include "is distributed", "is scattered", "is dispersed", or "is laid out", depending on the specific context you're describing.

What's the difference between "is spread out" and "is scattered"?

"Is spread out" generally implies a wider, more even distribution, while "is scattered" suggests a more random and uneven placement. For example, information might be "spread out" in a document but debris might be "scattered" after an explosion.

Is it correct to use "is spread out" to describe time?

Yes, "is spread out" can describe how something happens over a period of time, like "The payments "are spread out" over several months".