larger pattern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "larger pattern" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing broader trends or themes that encompass smaller elements or details. Example: "In analyzing the data, we noticed a larger pattern emerging that suggested a shift in consumer behavior."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There's a larger pattern here.

The New Yorker

This is part of a larger pattern.

The New York Times

And it may be part of a larger pattern.

The New York Times

Unfortunately this fits into a larger pattern of fostered suspicion.

The Guardian - Opinion

Ms. Tharp tends to sacrifice details to a larger pattern.

The New York Times - Arts

Portillo's shift is part of a larger pattern.

The Guardian - Opinion

Unfortunately, however, it is part of a larger pattern.

The Washington Post

Eaton's results followed a larger pattern this earnings season.

The New York Times

And it's part of a larger pattern of change.

The New York Times

But North Carolina's comeback victory against Duke might have illustrated a larger pattern.

The New York Times - Sports

The story could be continued to the present, though the larger pattern remains the same.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "larger pattern", ensure you've clearly established the individual instances or details that contribute to the overall trend you're describing. Providing concrete examples enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid assuming every correlation indicates a "larger pattern". Ensure there's sufficient evidence and statistical relevance before asserting a widespread trend, to avoid misleading conclusions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "larger pattern" typically functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a preposition or a complement to a verb. Ludwig shows this in examples where it describes overarching trends or phenomena identified through analysis or observation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Academia

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "larger pattern" is a commonly used noun phrase to denote a trend or theme evident across multiple observations or data points. Grammatically sound and versatile, it frequently appears in news, academic, and scientific contexts to highlight significant overarching trends. As Ludwig confirms, it’s a useful tool for connecting specific instances to broader phenomena. When employing "larger pattern", ensure that supporting evidence is robust to avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives such as "broader trend" or "overarching theme" can add nuance, depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broader trend

Focuses on the direction or tendency of something over time, emphasizing the overall movement rather than specific details.

overarching theme

Highlights the central idea or message that underlies a set of observations or events.

general tendency

Emphasizes a common or typical behavior or outcome observed in a group or situation.

systemic pattern

Suggests that the pattern is embedded within a system and is not merely coincidental.

widespread occurrence

Indicates that the pattern is happening in many places or among many people.

prevailing pattern

Implies that the pattern is currently dominant or most noticeable.

recurring motif

Used more in literary or artistic contexts, highlighting a repeated element or idea.

consistent thread

Highlights a unifying element or idea that runs through different parts of something.

common denominator

Focuses on what different things share, the element they all have in common.

macro trend

Emphasizes that the pattern is a large-scale trend affecting a broad area or population.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "larger pattern" in a sentence?

Use "larger pattern" to connect specific observations to a broader trend or phenomenon. For example, "The increase in remote work is part of a "larger pattern" of digital transformation in the workplace".

What phrases can I substitute for "larger pattern" to vary my writing?

Alternatives include "broader trend", "overarching theme", or "general tendency" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "larger pattern" in formal writing?

Yes, "larger pattern" is suitable for formal writing, especially when analyzing data, trends, or phenomena in academic, business, or news contexts. However, using "systemic pattern" or "widespread occurrence" could be more appropriate based on context.

How does "larger pattern" differ from "isolated incident"?

"Larger pattern" refers to a widespread or recurring trend, while "isolated incident" refers to a one-time occurrence not indicative of a broader trend. Recognizing the difference is crucial for accurate analysis and reporting.