material was scattered

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "material was scattered" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where items or substances have been dispersed or spread out over an area. Example: "After the storm, the material was scattered across the yard, making it difficult to find the tools we needed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Much of the material was scattered at auctions after her death in 1973.

The New York Times - Arts

He found that material was scattered over an area 500 m in diameter.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Jewel insists that while some Drive material is scattered around Symmetry, it should not be regarded as the film's lost score (for one, its two-hour duration exceeds the movie's running time by a half-hour).

The Guardian - Music

Neutrons hitting atoms of the target material are scattered into a pattern that, when recorded on photographic film, yields information about the relative positions of atoms in the material.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As the nature of research in the FCO in air transport is difficult to confine to specific disciplines, the relevant materials are scattered across various journals.

European Transport Research Review

In effect between 800,000 and 1 million tons of mine waste materials were scattered in an area of approximately 350 400 km2.

Journal of Hydrology

Bedding material (hay) was scattered every day before 11 00 am (when no animal was active).

BMC Ecology

Groups of material entities are scattered material entity aggregates whereas clusters are lumped material entity aggregates.

Plosone

"It was scattered".

The New York Times

There was scattered applause.

The New York Times

The housing was scattered nationwide.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a scene, use "material was scattered" to convey a sense of disarray or widespread distribution. Ensure that the context clarifies what 'material' refers to, to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "material was scattered" when referring to abstract concepts or information. This phrase is best suited for describing physical objects or substances that have been dispersed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "material was scattered" functions primarily as a descriptive statement in the passive voice. It indicates that a certain substance or collection of objects has been spread or dispersed across an area. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "material was scattered" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to describe the dispersal of physical substances or objects. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. It's prevalent in news, scientific, and encyclopedia contexts. When writing, ensure the 'material' is clearly defined and that the phrase aligns with the intended sense of disarray or wide distribution. Consider alternatives like "items were dispersed" or "debris was spread" for nuanced descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

items were dispersed

Focuses on the action of spreading items, suggesting a less uniform distribution.

elements were spread out

Focuses on the action of spreading, indicating more clarity.

goods were strewn

Implies a more haphazard and random scattering of goods.

pieces were strewn about

Implies an untidy, random scattering of pieces.

debris was spread

Specifically refers to the scattering of wreckage or waste.

substances were dissipated

Focuses on the dispersal of matter or stuff until its non-existence.

components were dissipated

Suggests that components vanished or broke apart and spread out.

objects were sprinkled

Suggests that objects fell in tiny quantities, as in an action.

fragments were distributed

Focuses on the deliberate or even distribution of fragments over an area.

articles were broadcast

Focuses on the public, external and wide distribution of things.

FAQs

How can I use "material was scattered" in a sentence?

Use "material was scattered" to describe a scene where items or substances have been spread out over an area, like "After the explosion, the debris, or "material was scattered", across the street".

What are some alternatives to "material was scattered"?

You can use alternatives like "items were dispersed", "goods were strewn", or "debris was spread" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "material was scattered" in formal writing?

Yes, the phrase "material was scattered" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing physical phenomena or events in a clear and objective manner. For example, in scientific or journalistic contexts.

What kind of material is usually described as "scattered"?

The term "material" in "material was scattered" generally refers to tangible items or substances, such as debris, documents, or particles. The specific type of material will depend on the context. It is not commonly used for abstract concepts.