run the gamut

USAGE SUMMARY

"run the gamut" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiom used to describe the full range or variety of something. For example: "The conference speakers ran the gamut from respected academics to industry professionals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Answers run the gamut.

The New York Times - Sports

Rentals run the gamut.

The New York Times

The claims run the gamut.

The New York Times

The arguments run the gamut.

The Economist

Their personalities run the gamut.

The New York Times - Sports

They run the gamut.

The New York Times - Magazine

Prices run the gamut.

The New York Times

Condo board requirements run the gamut.

The New York Times

Defendants in these cases run the gamut.

The New York Times

The people and fare run the gamut.

The New York Times - Arts

The artists, too, run the gamut.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "run the gamut" to effectively convey that a subject includes a wide variety of elements, styles, or possibilities. For example, 'The available options run the gamut from simple to complex.'

Common error

Avoid using "run the gamut" when referring to a limited or narrow selection. This idiom implies a comprehensive range, not just a few options.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "run the gamut" functions as a verb phrase, indicating that a subject encompasses a complete range or variety. According to Ludwig, it is used to describe the full range or variety of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "run the gamut" is a versatile idiom used to express a comprehensive range or variety. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Its usage spans across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general discourse. While alternatives like "cover the spectrum" exist, "run the gamut" maintains a unique capacity to convey the idea of a complete assortment. When employing this phrase, ensure that the subject genuinely encompasses a wide range to avoid misapplication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cover the spectrum

Focuses on the range between two extremes, similar to 'run the gamut'.

span the range

Emphasizes the extent of coverage across a variety of items.

encompass the scope

More formal; highlights the inclusion of all aspects within a defined boundary.

extend across the board

Implies a widespread effect or application in many different categories.

include everything

Direct and simple; focuses on the completeness of inclusion.

go from A to Z

Informal; emphasizes completeness by referencing the beginning and end.

embrace the entirety

Highlights a holistic and comprehensive approach to including all elements.

involve the totality

Stresses the inclusion of the complete sum of all parts.

comprehend the ensemble

Suggests a deep understanding and inclusion of all interacting elements.

traverse the field

Indicates a journey or exploration across all aspects of a topic or area.

FAQs

How can I use "run the gamut" in a sentence?

You can use "run the gamut" to indicate that something covers a wide range or variety. For instance, "The movie genres at the film festival "run the gamut" from comedies to thrillers".

What does "run the gamut" mean?

The phrase "run the gamut" means to encompass a complete or wide range of possibilities, qualities, or things.

What can I say instead of "run the gamut"?

Alternatives include "cover the spectrum", "span the range", or "encompass the scope", depending on the desired level of formality and specific nuance.

Is it appropriate to use "run the gamut" in formal writing?

Yes, "run the gamut" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. It's commonly used in news articles, academic papers, and general conversation.