span a wide spectrum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "span a wide spectrum" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something includes all elements of a wide range of possibilities, such as opinions, interests, colors, or emotions. For example, "This collection of stories spans a wide spectrum of topics, from adventure to romance."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Such programs span a wide spectrum of program designs.

Cornell University

Ion transport proteins can thus span a wide spectrum, from highly evolved ion channels to evolutionarily perfected ion pumps.

Nature

These methods span a wide spectrum of multidisciplinary techniques, from new spectroscopic advances to in situ cell-selective protein expression to devices designed to mimic the conditions of flow present in blood vessels where in situ leukocyte migration occurs.

Methods in Enzymology

The goals of watershed management projects may span a wide spectrum including, but limited to flood reduction, soil erosion reduction, water quality improvement or protection, and/or increase source of wood fiber for fuel or construction material.

International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction

The ontologies in (a) span a wide spectrum of entities.

SEP

The playlists span a wide spectrum of musical genres from underground Detroit house tracks to New York Philharmonic favorites.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

He was a proud and active member of the Arts Community whose interests spanned a wide spectrum.

The New York Times

The interest spans a wide spectrum of disciplines and application domains.

Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews

His experience spans a wide spectrum of regions, including the emerging economies of Asia and Latin America and developing countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, North America and Europe.

Columbia University

His experience spans a wide spectrum of regions, including the emerging economies of Asia and Latin America, developing countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, North America and Europe.

Columbia University

Robotics: Science and Systems VI spans a wide spectrum of robotics, bringing together researchers working on the foundations of robotics, robotics applications, and the analysis of robotics systems.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "span a wide spectrum" to effectively communicate the breadth or diversity of a topic, subject, or range of possibilities. For example, "The conference sessions span a wide spectrum of marketing strategies."

Common error

Avoid using "span a wide spectrum" when a simpler, more direct phrase would suffice. For instance, instead of saying "The project spans a wide spectrum of tasks", consider "The project includes many tasks" if the variety isn't the key point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "span a wide spectrum" functions as a verb phrase where "span" is the verb and "a wide spectrum" is the object. Ludwig examples show how it connects a subject with the broad range it encompasses.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Academia

30%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "span a wide spectrum" is a versatile expression used to indicate that something encompasses a comprehensive and diverse range of elements. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, including science, news, and academia. It is important to remember that, while "span a wide spectrum" effectively communicates breadth, simpler phrases may be more appropriate in specific situations. Alternatives such as "cover a broad range" or "include a multitude of" can be used depending on the intended emphasis. The phrase is commonly found in authoritative sources like The New York Times, TechCrunch and Forbes, indicating its acceptance in both formal and informal writing. Therefore, using "span a wide spectrum" can enhance your writing by clearly conveying the scope and variety of a subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cover a broad range

Focuses on the extent of coverage rather than variety within it.

encompass a diverse array

Emphasizes the inclusion of a varied collection.

extend across a vast scope

Highlights the expansive reach or area covered.

include a multitude of

Stresses the numerous components included.

range over a considerable scale

Indicates the degree to which something varies.

run the gamut of

Suggests a complete or comprehensive inclusion of everything between extremes.

traverse a wide scope

Similar to extend, but can imply moving across something.

embrace a spectrum of

Highlights the act of welcoming or accepting different aspects.

exhibit a varied assortment

Focuses on showing a diverse collection.

display a wide array

Similar to exhibit, but more about the visible presentation.

FAQs

How can I use "span a wide spectrum" in a sentence?

Use "span a wide spectrum" to indicate that something covers a broad range or variety. For example, "The courses "span a wide spectrum" of topics, from basic theory to advanced applications."

What can I say instead of "span a wide spectrum"?

You can use alternatives like "cover a broad range", "encompass a diverse array", or "include a multitude of" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "span a wide range" or ""span a wide spectrum""?

Both are correct, but ""span a wide spectrum"" emphasizes the diversity and variety within the range, whereas "span a wide range" simply denotes extent.

What does it mean when something "spans a wide spectrum"?

It means that it covers or includes a comprehensive and varied assortment of possibilities, topics, or elements. For instance, "The artist's work spans a wide spectrum of styles, from abstract to realistic."