span over

USAGE SUMMARY

"span over" is an expression that is used in written English, typically when discussing a period of time.
For example, you could say "the company's success has spanned over two decades."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"In addition, our global footprint will span over 80 countries.

The New York Times

The scheme features 35 bridges, including a new 1.2-mile (2km) span over the river Usk.

The Guardian

The pedestrian-friendly span over the Ohio River provides terrific views of the skyline.

The New York Times - Travel

Her philanthropic activities span over fifty years, selflessly giving to those in need.

The New York Times

The experience abroad can be as short as one week or span over an entire summer.

Cornell University

This will be done with year 10 and span over five weeks.

The Guardian

About 6,000 shredded pieces that span over 25 years of work, pigment and resin.

The New York Times

What is the span over which "lost sleep" can be recovered?

The New York Times

The nature of most CVD is subclinical with pathological processes that can span over years.

Phytomedicine

Contemporary processes of environmental policymaking in general span over several territorial tiers.

Journal of Environmental Management

There are several factors: The six-week time span over which Line of Duty aired was crucial.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "span over", ensure the subject clearly indicates what is being extended across a duration or area for maximum clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "span over" in a past tense construction when referring to an ongoing or future event. Instead, use the present or future tense to maintain accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "span over" functions primarily as a verb phrase used to describe the extent or duration of something. It indicates that something extends or reaches across a particular area, time period, or range. Ludwig AI shows the expression is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "span over" is a versatile verb phrase that denotes the extent or duration of something. Ludwig AI indicates its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. To enhance clarity in your writing, use the phrase precisely to describe the scale or comprehensiveness of a subject, ensuring the subject clearly indicates what is being extended. While generally neutral in tone, avoid using it in past tense when describing ongoing events. Alternatives like "extend across", "cover a period of", and "range across" can add variety to your writing. By following these guidelines, you can confidently use "span over" to effectively communicate the scope of various phenomena.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extend across

Focuses on the physical reach or scope.

cover a period of

Emphasizes the duration or timeframe involved.

range across

Suggests a variation or spectrum within the scope.

encompass

Highlights the inclusion of multiple elements or aspects.

stretch across

Implies a continuous length or distance.

traverse

Suggests a journey or movement across something.

be in effect for

Highlights the period during which something is operational or valid.

persist through

Indicates endurance or continuation over a certain time.

be valid for

Emphasizes the period for which something remains acceptable or authorized.

hold true for

Indicates the timeframe during which a statement or principle remains applicable.

FAQs

How can I use "span over" in a sentence?

You can use "span over" to describe a duration, range, or area that something covers. For example, "The project will "extend across" three years" or "The company's influence "ranges across" multiple industries".

What is a good alternative to "span over"?

Some alternatives include "extend across", "cover a period of", or "range across", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "spanning over"?

Yes, "spanning over" is the present participle form and can be used as part of a continuous tense. For instance, "The negotiations are "extending across" several weeks".

What's the difference between "span over" and "cover"?

"Span over" typically refers to a duration or range, while "cover" can refer to both duration and subject matter. For example, "The course "covers a period of" six months" versus "The course covers a wide range of topics."