multiple centuries

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "multiple centuries" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a time span that encompasses more than one hundred years, often in historical or academic contexts. Example: "The architectural style has evolved significantly over multiple centuries, reflecting changes in culture and technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Mr. Eotvos admired the connections that the young conductor drew over multiple centuries.

The New York Times - Arts

It's a bit like an introductory course on Western civilization where multiple centuries are covered in a single lecture.

The New York Times - Arts

Instead of opening fire on bystanders in a crowded bank, as Justice wanted, Zits finds himself on a time-traveling journey that traverses multiple centuries and transforms his worn-out soul in unexpected ways.

The New York Times - Books

And Chris Rogers, as they say, "looked the part" – of a grisly, 35-year-old veteran prepared to grind his way to multiple centuries over the next nine Tests.

The Guardian - Sport

The four-week series is performed in separate West Jersey locations -- none of which were meant to be concert halls -- and the music comes from all over the world, and from multiple centuries.

The New York Times

However, the severity of this and other recent extreme hydrologic events are better understood when placed in the context of multiple centuries of Midwest hydroclimatic variability.

Journal of Hydrology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Bradman completed the season with 1,690 first-class runs, averaging 93.88, and his first multiple century in a Sheffield Shield match, 340 not out against Victoria, set a new ground record for the SCG.

Wikipedia

During an innings stretching over three days due to intermittent rain, Bradman made yet another multiple century, this time 232, which helped give Australia a big lead of 290 runs.

Wikipedia

"Romeo and Juliet" may have set a multiple-century precedent for star-crossed -- and primarily heterosexual -- love stories, but at least one legendary actor of stage and screen believes William Shakespeare enjoyed the company of male lovers in his own personal life.

Huffington Post

Bunker's moodily lighted interior unifies multiple 19th-century brick vaults, which are said to have housed a Civil War-era hospital and, more recently, an S&M club.

The New York Times

It has been surpassed by multiple 21st century films since, and currently holds the 43rd highest worldwide gross of all-time for a film.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "multiple centuries", ensure the context clearly indicates a historical or long-term perspective. It's often used to describe trends, changes, or phenomena that unfold over extended durations.

Common error

Don't use "multiple centuries" when a shorter time frame is more appropriate. If you're discussing something that happened in the last few decades, using "multiple centuries" would be an exaggeration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "multiple centuries" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as an adverbial of time, specifying the duration over which an event, trend, or phenomenon occurs. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "multiple centuries" is a grammatically sound and useful way to describe events or trends unfolding over extended periods. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's well-suited for academic, news, and scientific contexts. While "several centuries" and "many centuries" offer similar meanings, "multiple centuries" provides a slightly more formal tone. Remember to use it when the context genuinely spans more than two centuries, avoiding overuse in shorter timelines. Being aware of these nuances will help you use the phrase effectively and precisely.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

several centuries

Uses "several" instead of "multiple", indicating more than two but not many centuries.

many centuries

Employs "many" to suggest a large number of centuries.

numerous centuries

Replaces "multiple" with "numerous", implying a considerable number of centuries.

various centuries

Suggests a selection of centuries, rather than a continuous period.

across centuries

Focuses on the idea of spanning different centuries.

over centuries

Highlights the progression or duration covering centuries.

spanning centuries

Emphasizes the act of extending or reaching across centuries.

through the ages

A more general and evocative way to refer to a long historical period.

for generations

Focuses on the human aspect of the time span, referring to successive generations.

long period of time

A broader phrase that doesn't specifically mention centuries but implies a significant duration.

FAQs

How do I use "multiple centuries" in a sentence?

Use "multiple centuries" to describe events, trends, or changes that occur over a period exceeding two or more centuries. For example, "The evolution of architecture occurred over "multiple centuries"".

What can I say instead of "multiple centuries"?

You can use alternatives like "several centuries", "many centuries", or "numerous centuries" depending on the desired emphasis.

Is it better to say "multiple centuries" or "many centuries"?

Both ""multiple centuries"" and "many centuries" are acceptable. "Multiple centuries" is slightly more formal and precise, while "many centuries" is more common and informal.

What's the difference between "multiple centuries" and "a few centuries"?

"Multiple centuries" indicates more than two centuries, emphasizing the prolonged duration. "A few centuries" suggests a shorter, less precisely defined period of several centuries.