it spans

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it spans" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the extent or range of something, such as time, space, or topics covered. Example: "The project spans several months and involves multiple departments working together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It spans all ages".

The New York Times - Tech

Titled "Gloria," it spans four pages.

The New York Times

It spans all phone and web technology.

The Guardian

Again, it spans across industry sectors.

Cornell University

It spans several centuries and several nations.

Harvard University

Today it spans thousands of microfinanciers serving 40m individuals.

The Economist

It spans three years with an option for a fourth.

The New York Times

It spans management theory, information technology, psychology, biology and sociology.

The New York Times

It spans everything from hair removal to jihad.

The Guardian - Opinion

It spans gender and generation, private and public sectors.

The New York Times

It spans the neck of the Mithalan lake.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing sizes or physical ranges, ensure the units are specified for clear understanding (e.g., "It spans 268 kilometers").

Common error

Avoid using "it spans" when referring to abstract concepts that cannot be quantified or measured. For example, instead of saying "It spans happiness", use a more appropriate verb like "it encompasses" or "it embodies".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it spans" functions as a verb phrase used to indicate the extent, range, or duration of a subject. As seen in Ludwig, it connects a subject with the measure, scope, or period it encompasses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it spans" is a versatile and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the extent, range, or duration of a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across diverse contexts, from academic writing to news reporting. While "it spans" is suitable for various situations, alternatives like "it covers" or "it encompasses" may provide more precise descriptions depending on the intended meaning. Keep in mind the specific nuances when choosing the right phrase for clarity and effectiveness. "It spans" is most frequently found in News & Media, Academic and Science contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it covers

Focuses on the content or topics included within a subject, shifting from spatial or temporal extent to conceptual inclusion.

it encompasses

Implies a comprehensive inclusion of all aspects within a defined scope, suggesting thoroughness.

it ranges from

Highlights the variety and extremes within a defined set of limits, emphasizing diversity.

it extends to

Suggests reaching or stretching to a certain point or limit, focusing on the direction of reach.

it includes

Emphasizes the presence of specific elements or items within a larger set, concentrating on membership.

it stretches across

Visually emphasizes the physical extent or duration across a distance or time period.

it runs through

Highlights a continuous connection or influence throughout a system or period.

it reaches

Focuses on the ability to touch or affect something, highlighting impact or accessibility.

it spreads over

Emphasizes the distribution or expansion across an area or population.

it deals with

Shifts the focus to the subjects or issues addressed, instead of the physical or temporal length.

FAQs

How can I use "it spans" in a sentence?

Use "it spans" to describe the range or extent of something. For example, "The project "it spans" several departments" or "The exhibition "it spans" two centuries".

What are some alternatives to "it spans"?

You can use alternatives like "it covers", "it encompasses", or "it ranges from" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "it spans from x to y" or "it spans x to y"?

"It spans from x to y" is generally more grammatically correct and clearer. Although "it spans x to y" might be understood, including "from" improves readability. Consider using a structure like "it extends from" instead.

What's the difference between "it spans" and "it covers"?

"It spans" typically refers to a range, distance, or duration, while "it covers" refers to the subject matter or topics included. "The bridge "it spans" the river" versus "The book "it covers" various historical events".