put on a spread

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'put on a spread' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to mean to prepare and present an abundant or varied selection of food. For example: "For the holiday party, I'm putting on a spread of delicious hors d'oeuvres."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

When it came to Kevin's funeral, Patti Boyle became a bit frantic about catering, knowing that her son would have wanted to put on a proper spread.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Tip the sugar into the pan, shake gently to spread it evenly and put on a medium-low heat.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Tell and show after making all your fabulous pieces, it's time to spread the word and put on a jewelery party!

WikiHow

Plus, putting on a good spread was a way to demonstrate that the court, and its leader, had regained equilibrium.

The New Yorker

She also puts on a generous spread of croissants, pains au chocolat, and rustic bread fresh from a local bakery, homemade jams, fresh fruit, juice, yoghurt and creamy goat's cheese with honey.

Independent

It is possible the transaction represents an investor closing out a long debit put spread, rather than putting on a riskier credit spread, but both scenarios are bullish plays.

Forbes

The food is only your pleasant excuse for getting together, so don't worry about putting on a gourmet restaurant spread.

WikiHow

Monkey hears Google put on quite a spread, including lots of Taittinger champagne – rather too opulent, complained some of the hacks, for whom the evidence of the contrasting fortunes of old and new media was almost too much to take.

The Guardian

Plus, if you look into the world of piracy, the extra tracks or whatever they put on will quickly spread across torrent sites, on to YouTube within a day of the CDs' release.

The Guardian - Music

Put on tomato sauce, spread it as thin or thick as you like.

WikiHow

Although optional, it's recommended that you try Once you have everything you want to put on your collage, spread it to design the collage before proceeding.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "put on a spread" when you want to convey the idea of providing a generous and varied selection of food, typically in an informal or celebratory setting. It's ideal for describing parties, gatherings, or events where a large and appealing food display is central.

Common error

Avoid using "put on a spread" when you mean to physically spread something (like butter on bread) or to disseminate information widely. The phrase specifically refers to a large food offering, so ensure the context is clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "put on a spread" functions as an idiomatic expression, primarily acting as a verb phrase. It describes the action of preparing and presenting a large and varied selection of food, often for a gathering or event, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Travel

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "put on a spread" is a common and generally informal way to describe the act of preparing and presenting a generous and varied selection of food. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in contexts related to hosting events, parties, or gatherings. While primarily used in news and media, it is important to distinguish its meaning from the literal action of spreading something. For more formal situations, consider alternative phrases like "prepare a feast" or "lay out a banquet". Remember to use this phrase when you want to convey a sense of abundance and hospitality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

arrange a sumptuous spread

Stresses the visual arrangement and luxurious quality of the food.

prepare a feast

Focuses more on the preparation of an elaborate meal rather than the overall presentation.

lay out a banquet

Implies a more formal and lavish display of food than "put on a spread".

set up a buffet

Describes the action of preparing a self-service food selection for a meal or gathering.

host a lavish meal

Emphasizes the act of hosting and the opulence of the meal.

display a variety of dishes

Highlights the presentation of various food items, suitable in a context with different plates.

offer a generous array of food

Highlights the variety and abundance of the food provided.

provide an extensive buffet

Specifically refers to a buffet-style meal with many options.

provide ample refreshments

Focuses specifically on providing drinks and snacks, rather than a full meal.

cater a grand event

Focuses on the catering aspect, suitable for larger or more formal occasions.

FAQs

What does it mean to "put on a spread"?

To "put on a spread" means to prepare and display a large and varied selection of food, often for a party or gathering. It implies generosity and abundance in the food provided.

Is "put on a spread" formal or informal?

The phrase "put on a spread" is generally considered informal. It's more suitable for casual conversations and writing than for formal business or academic contexts. For more formal situations, consider using "prepare a feast" or "lay out a banquet".

What are some synonyms for "put on a spread"?

Alternatives include "prepare a feast", "lay out a banquet", "host a lavish meal", and "offer a generous array of food". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

How can I use "put on a spread" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "For the holiday party, we're planning to "put on a spread" that includes appetizers, main courses, and desserts." Another example: "She always "puts on a spread" when her family comes to visit."