sheer scope

USAGE SUMMARY

"sheer scope" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe the extent or range of something, emphasizing its size or magnitude. Here is an example: "The project was ambitious in its sheer scope, encompassing multiple countries and industries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The sheer scope of the undertaking was formidable.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The sheer scope of the book is proof of that.

The New York Times - Books

The work is impressive for its sheer scope and ambition.

The Guardian

The sheer scope of the futility is impressive.

The New York Times

"But the sheer scope and accuracy of the Celtic enterprise are unparalleled".

The New York Times - Books

Another problem is the sheer scope of the skullduggery under examination.

The New York Times

Company representatives acknowledge that the sheer scope of the smartphone explosion caught them off guard.

The New York Times

For sheer scope and ambition she makes Dickens and Tolstoy seem single minded.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Based on O'Connell's 1998 work, Wallace's work emphasizes the sheer scope and size of the human clitoris.

Wikipedia

While there are few figures on the efficacy of advertising with the Kardashian Jenners, the sheer scope of their audience appeals to brands.

Forbes

Upon entry, the sheer scope of the place is overwhelming.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the impressive size or range of something, use "sheer scope" to convey a sense of magnitude and completeness. For example, "The sheer scope of the project required significant resources".

Common error

Avoid using "sheer scope" when you simply mean 'size' or 'amount'. The phrase implies a sense of awe or overwhelm due to the magnitude, so ensure it aligns with the intended emotional impact. Don't use it for neutral descriptions of size.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sheer scope" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It often acts as a subject or object in a sentence, denoting the extent or range of something, emphasizing its magnitude. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples where "sheer scope" describes the scale or comprehensiveness of an event, project, or problem.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Academia

0.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sheer scope" is a widely used and grammatically correct noun phrase that effectively conveys the magnitude or extent of something. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, where it serves to emphasize the scale of events, projects, or problems. While versatile, it's crucial to use "sheer scope" when a sense of awe or overwhelm due to the magnitude is intended, avoiding its use in simple size descriptions. Alternatives like "vast extent" or "immense scale" can be employed for similar effect, with careful consideration of nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

vast extent

Replaces "sheer scope" with a focus on the largeness of the range or area covered.

immense scale

Substitutes "scope" with "scale", highlighting the size and proportions involved.

broad magnitude

Emphasizes the greatness or importance of something's size, changing both nouns.

extensive range

Focuses on the variety and reach, replacing "scope" with "range" and "sheer" with "extensive".

sweeping scale

Emphasizes the broad and comprehensive nature of the scale involved.

complete coverage

Highlights the thoroughness and comprehensiveness, shifting the focus slightly from size to inclusion.

wide compass

Uses a more figurative term, "compass", to indicate the breadth and reach of something.

unlimited extent

Focuses on the lack of boundaries or limits, replacing "sheer" with "unlimited".

total expanse

Highlights the overall area or space occupied, differing slightly in connotation.

comprehensive reach

Focuses on the extent to which something extends or influences, changing both nouns.

FAQs

How can I use "sheer scope" in a sentence?

You can use "sheer scope" to emphasize the vastness or magnitude of something. For example, "The "sheer scope" of the undertaking was daunting" or "The "sheer scope" of the problem required a multi-faceted approach".

What are some alternatives to "sheer scope"?

Alternatives to "sheer scope" include "vast extent", "immense scale", or "broad magnitude". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "sheer scope" formal or informal?

"Sheer scope" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is more common in formal writing and speech, especially when discussing complex topics or large-scale projects.

What does "sheer" mean in the phrase "sheer scope"?

In the phrase "sheer scope", "sheer" emphasizes the magnitude or extent of the scope. It implies that the scope is considerable and perhaps even overwhelming or impressive. It adds emphasis to the word "scope".