proliferation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "proliferation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the rapid increase or spread of something, often in a negative context, such as weapons or diseases. Example: "The proliferation of nuclear weapons poses a significant threat to global security."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What has happened in the four years since Ebert made his article SFW is a proliferation of warnings and cues that enjoin us not to click.

The Guardian

It is the latest example of a post-9/11 proliferation of intelligence operations by unapproved US government organizations.

The Guardian

Yet one thing remains certain: the proliferation of media platforms can only be good news for viewers, no matter how we prefer to watch.

The Guardian

The problem of Fixed Odds Betting Terminals is linked to the proliferation of betting shops in some communities and so we will continue to argue for Scotland to have full responsibility for the regulation of gambling".

The Guardian - Tech

But from that point, to listen in to the conversation a court's permission would have to be sought, he insisted, adding that the process applied only "very narrowly to leads that we have obtained on issues related to terrorism or proliferation of weapons of mass destruction".

The Guardian

And the proliferation of festivals reflect the city's hunger for ideas.

The Guardian

The sheer proliferation of leading combatants has transformed this race.

The Guardian - Opinion

Others see it as an open invitation for the proliferation of "greenwash" initiatives, which continue to put profit before people and planet.

The Guardian

The economy has improved; there has been a proliferation of cafes and restaurants to cope with the increased tourism.

The Guardian

There's a proliferation of new hardware formats coming and as a company, we have to learn how our users are going to use them.

The Guardian

The president's proposed deal with Iran will likely lead to a cascade of nuclear proliferation in the Middle East, and it could force Israel to take bold action to defend itself, making war with Iran even more likely".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing sensitive topics like weapons, use "proliferation" to emphasize the dangers of uncontrolled spread. For example, "prevent nuclear proliferation".

Common error

Avoid using "proliferation" when a simple "increase" or "growth" suffices. "Proliferation" often implies a rapid and sometimes undesirable expansion. For example: the "proliferation" of good news is unusual but potentially misleading.

Linguistic Context

The word "proliferation" functions primarily as a noun. It denotes the process of rapid increase or spread, especially of something undesirable. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in various contexts, as seen in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

21%

Science

21%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The noun "proliferation" effectively describes a rapid increase or spread, often in a context that raises concern. Ludwig AI validates its usage across diverse domains like news, business, and science, as demonstrated by the numerous examples provided. While grammatically sound and frequently used, understanding the subtle difference between "proliferation" and similar terms like "increase" or "spread" is crucial for precise communication. When selecting "proliferation", consider the potential negative implications and the scope of the expansion you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increase

Focuses on the numerical growth or enlargement of something.

spread

Emphasizes the spatial dissemination or distribution of something.

growth

Highlights the progressive development or maturation of something.

expansion

Implies the broadening or extension of something's scope or reach.

buildup

Suggests a gradual accumulation or intensification of something.

escalation

Indicates a rapid increase or intensification, often in a negative context.

augmentation

Refers to the process of making something greater in size or value.

multiplication

Implies a rapid and significant increase in number or quantity.

dissemination

Focuses on the act of spreading information or knowledge widely.

outbreak

Describes a sudden and widespread occurrence, often of a disease or conflict.

FAQs

How is "proliferation" typically used in a sentence?

"Proliferation" is generally used to describe the rapid increase or spread of something, often with negative connotations. For instance, "the proliferation of misinformation online" or "concerns about nuclear proliferation".

What words can I use instead of "proliferation"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "increase", "spread", "growth", or "expansion".

Is it correct to use "proliferation" in a positive context?

While "proliferation" can be used in a positive context, it's more commonly associated with negative or problematic increases. Ensure the context aligns with the potential for concern or excess.

What is the difference between "proliferation" and "dissemination"?

"Proliferation" typically refers to a rapid increase or spread, often with negative implications, while "dissemination" refers to the spreading of information or knowledge. For example, you might talk about the "dissemination of research findings" rather than the "proliferation" of them.