spanning the bridge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spanning the bridge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that extends across or connects two sides of a bridge, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The artist created a stunning mural spanning the bridge, showcasing the history of the city."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The structure's namesake is drawn from the pedestrian bridge's nighttime appearance the blue and white LED lights spanning the bridge reflect off the surface of the River Tees, and together with the curvature of the bridge, create an awe-inspiring infinity sign.

Vice

The projection, spanning the bridge's 30,000 square foot anchorage, allows viewers to experience their surroundings in a new way.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

One US industrial company worked well with its Japanese partner because of a key alliance leader who spanned the bridge.

Harvard Business Review

Imagine a clear view of the city and the Marin Headlands as we span the bridge and descend, via a thrilling downhill glide, into beautiful Sausalito.

Columbia University

The arch is made of six prefabricated trapezoid steel box sections, and spans the bridge diagonally.

Wikipedia

The bridge consists of a deck supported by cables from a single arch that spans the bridge diagonally.

Wikipedia

Runners travel a course that spans the bridges and the streets of the five boroughs.

The New Yorker

Brooklyn Bridge, suspension bridge spanning the East River from Brooklyn to Manhattan in New York City.

Britannica

Brooklyn Bridge, suspension bridge spanning the East River from Brooklyn to Manhattan Island, New York City.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He also defused demolition charges on the bridge spanning the Scheldt River.

Wikipedia

The bridges spanning the Tigris, which link the eastern and western halves of the city, were destroyed.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing infrastructure or architectural features, use "spanning the bridge" to clearly indicate something extending across its entire width or length. For instance, "LED lights spanning the bridge created an awe-inspiring infinity sign".

Common error

Avoid using "spanning the bridge" when referring to something that only partially covers the bridge or exists solely on one section. "Located on the bridge" or "near the bridge" would be more accurate if it doesn't extend from one end to the other.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spanning the bridge" typically functions as a participial phrase, modifying a noun and describing something that extends across the entire structure of a bridge. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Encyclopedias

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "spanning the bridge" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon way to describe something extending across a bridge. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to illustrate a connection or extension between two points, literally or figuratively. Although versatile across neutral registers, it appears more frequently in news, encyclopedic, and wiki contexts. When writing, ensure the scope of what is "spanning" truly covers the entire bridge and consider alternatives like "crossing the bridge" if a more general description is needed. Common mistakes are misinterpreting the scope of what extends over the bridge, but correct usage can be achieved by following the examples available in Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

crossing the bridge

Focuses on the action of going from one side to the other.

bridging the gap

Emphasizes connecting two distinct entities or ideas.

extending across the bridge

Highlights the physical reach or length of something.

reaching over the bridge

Suggests an attempt to connect or influence from a distance.

connecting both sides of the bridge

Focuses on the function of the bridge to link two areas.

going over the bridge

A more generic way of describing movement across the bridge.

traversing the bridge

Implies a more formal or significant crossing.

linking via the bridge

Highlights the bridge as a means of connection.

passing over the bridge

Suggests a temporary or transient movement.

covering the bridge

Emphasizes the surface area or extent of something on the bridge.

FAQs

What does "spanning the bridge" mean?

The phrase "spanning the bridge" typically means something extends across the entire length or width of a bridge, connecting one side to the other. It can be used literally, as in "LED lights "extending across the bridge"", or figuratively, to suggest connecting two disparate things.

How can I use "spanning the bridge" in a sentence?

You can use "spanning the bridge" to describe a physical attribute, such as "The artwork was "displayed on the bridge"", or a more abstract concept, like "Initiatives "bridging the gap" between communities".

What are some alternatives to "spanning the bridge"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "spanning the bridge" could include "crossing the bridge", "going over the bridge", "connecting with the bridge", or "reaching the bridge".

Is it correct to say "spanning across the bridge"?

While understandable, "spanning the bridge" is more concise and commonly used. Adding "across" is redundant, as "spanning" already implies going from one side to another. Stick with "spanning the bridge" for better clarity and flow.