screens

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "screens" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used as a noun to refer to a protective or separating barrier, or a surface on which images are displayed. In the context of technology, it can also refer to the display of a computer, tablet, or smartphone. Example: "The movie theater had large screens that showed the latest blockbuster films." "The new phone model has a larger screen compared to the previous version." "The government is installing screens in public places to protect against the spread of COVID-19."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ive also said that Apple had been working on larger-screened smartphones for years, having created product models and decided that larger screens were more intuitive and useful.

The Guardian - Tech

About 500 relatives of victims are attending the ecumenical service, with hundreds more watching on large screens outside the cathedral and in a neighbouring church.

The Guardian

Angus Campbell, head of market analysis at Capital Spreads, said: It's feels like it's been such a long time since we've seen a sell off in equities that it comes as rather a surprise, and we've almost forgotten what it looks like to see red across our screens.

The Guardian - Business

The noise echoed around all corners of the loch, where fans had positioned themselves on grassy knolls and by big screens along the latter stages, and even the swans moved aside for the beginning of the race.

The Guardian - Sport

The short version: Babies and toddlers need imagination, not instant gratification – which is what screens often provide.

The Guardian - Opinion

Although we're having a lot of fun here and don't spend eight hours straight staring at our screens, we're growing fast and achieving some really good results for our clients.

The Guardian

Are they spending too much time looking at screens?

The Guardian - Opinion

— Youssef Mourad (@joseppimourad) July 21 , 2014#breaking reports israel is using white phosphorus which is illegal under international law #palestiniangenocide pic.twitter.com/or2h9go1Fj The Israeli military said it had stopped using white phosphorus to create smoke screens, after being roundly criticised by human rights groups because of the harmful effects of the substance on civilians.

The Guardian

Suddenly our cinema screens are full of sideburns.

The Guardian - Opinion

Lewis Hilsenteger from Unbox Therapy, he of bending iPhone 6 Plus fame, claims to have sourced two Ion-X screens from the Apple Watch Sport for testing and found that neither a metal implement such as a key or knife nor steel wool could scratch the screen.

The Guardian - Tech

Back at home meanwhile they had just got planning permission to turn the garage beside their humble two-up-two down semi in Finglas into a games room for the kids which would be equipped with the latest plasma 36" TV screens, full-size pool table, sofa beds for sleepovers, fridges, microwaves and all the other mod cons to keep their offspring happy and out of mum and dad's hair.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about technology, be specific about the type of "screens" you're referring to (e.g., LCD screens, touch screens, or projection screens) for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "screens" as a catch-all term. Instead, specify the type of screen (e.g., "computer monitors", "smartphone displays", or "cinema screens") to provide more precise information and enhance reader understanding.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "screens" is as a plural noun. It typically refers to display surfaces on electronic devices or used for projection, as seen in examples from Ludwig, like "cinema screens" or "computer screens". Ludwig AI indicates that this usage aligns with standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "screens" functions as a plural noun, primarily referring to visual display surfaces across various devices and contexts. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and widely used, especially in News & Media. While the term itself is neutral in formality, specifying the type of screen enhances clarity. When writing, avoid overuse without context and consider alternatives like "displays" or "monitors" for nuance. Ludwig's examples showcase its diverse application, from cinema to technology.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Electronic displays

Specifically refers to screens that use electronic technology to display images or information.

Displays

Refers to the visual output devices, similar to screens but can also include other forms of visual presentation.

Video displays

Specifically refers to screens used to display video content, narrowing the scope to moving images.

Monitors

Specifically refers to display devices used for computers or other electronic equipment.

Digital interfaces

Focuses on screens that are part of digital systems, emphasizing their role in digital interaction.

Visual interfaces

Focuses on the interactive aspect of screens, emphasizing how users interact with the displayed content.

Touchscreens

Refers to screens that allow users to interact through touch, adding an interactive dimension.

Projection surfaces

Emphasizes the surface onto which images are projected, differing slightly from the all-encompassing term "screens".

Viewing panels

Highlights the function of screens as surfaces for viewing content.

Smoke screens

Refers to something used to obscure, conceal, or deceive.

FAQs

How can I use "screens" in a sentence?

You can use "screens" to refer to display devices like TVs, computers, or phones. For example: "The movie was shown on large "screens"." or "Children are spending too much time in front of "screens".".

What's a good alternative to the word "screens"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "displays", "monitors", or "visual interfaces". Each carries slightly different connotations and is suitable for various contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "screens" in writing?

"Screens" is appropriate when referring to the general concept of display surfaces. However, for technical or precise writing, consider using more specific terms like "LCD screens" or "touchscreens".

What are some common collocations with the word "screens"?

Common collocations include "TV "screens"", "computer "screens"", "cinema "screens"", and "digital "screens"". These phrases specify the type of display being referenced.