spectrum of shades

USAGE SUMMARY

'spectrum of shades' is correct and usable in written English.
You could use 'spectrum of shades' to refer to a variety of colorful hues or colors. For example, "She was impressed by the spectrum of shades in the sunset."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Later generations show a much broader spectrum of shades.

The New York Times

The models transformed the runway, thanks to the spectrum of shades.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The cleverly packaged kits contain a selection of mini lip tints, in a spectrum of shades.

The New York Times - Style

Although the novel brings to life varieties of religious experience ("the whole spectrum of shades"), Kay knows full well that in fiction faith, or its loss, must appear "always in the concrete.

Independent

The spectrum of shades and colorings that constitute "black" identity in the United States, and the equal claim to black identity that someone who looks like White or Wright (or, for that matter, Dolezal) can have, is a direct product of bloodlines that attest to institutionalized rape during and after slavery.

The New Yorker

The result of such a situation had been the production of a spectrum of shades of meaning for SE.

Journal of Global Entrepreneurship Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

White doesn't drum so much as pour and withdraw a spectrum of shade and colour across his kit.

The Guardian - Music

Each exists outside a spectrum of shading or valuation; black is black.

Huffington Post

Nude colours encompass a spectrum of neutral shades from milky beiges to creamy mocha and toffee.

Independent

There's the whole spectrum of neutral shades but then also the occasional shot of daring colour, such as the electric blue Outnemer single eyeshadow (£16.50, narscosmetics.co.uk) from their autumn collection.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It was aimed at some Christian groups who understood human sexuality not as a spectrum of many shades but as a stark choice between right and wrong, the permitted and the forbidden.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "spectrum of shades" to describe a wide range of colors or hues within a particular category, such as describing the colors of autumn leaves or a makeup collection. It's best employed when you wish to convey the breadth and variety present.

Common error

Avoid using "spectrum of shades" in contexts that do not involve colors or hues. For instance, it would be inappropriate to say "a spectrum of shades of opinions"; instead, consider using "a range of opinions" or "a variety of perspectives".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spectrum of shades" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a descriptive element within a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It's used to specify the variety of colors or hues present in a particular context, as seen in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "spectrum of shades" is a grammatically sound and usable noun phrase, primarily employed to describe a diverse range of colors or hues. As Ludwig AI states, it is suitable for describing colorful variations. While relatively uncommon, its usage spans across contexts like news reporting and scientific descriptions, as seen from the examples. When using this phrase, ensure the context relates to color variations. Alternatives like "range of shades" or "variety of shades" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assortment of shades

Changes the noun from "spectrum" to "assortment", indicating a collection or variety.

palette of shades

Replaces "spectrum" with "palette", suggesting a range of colors used in art or design.

mix of shades

Uses "mix" instead of "spectrum", emphasizing a combination of different shades.

variety of shades

Uses "variety" instead of "spectrum", indicating a diverse selection of shades.

range of shades

Substitutes "spectrum" with "range", focusing on the extent of shades available.

array of shades

Replaces "spectrum" with "array", suggesting an organized or impressive collection of shades.

collection of shades

Uses "collection" to describe a gathering of different shades.

gradation of shades

Replaces "spectrum" with "gradation", focusing on a gradual change from one shade to another.

nuances of color

Shifts the focus to subtle differences in color, rather than a broad spectrum.

gamut of colors

Uses "gamut" to indicate the complete range of colors.

FAQs

How can I use "spectrum of shades" in a sentence?

You can use "spectrum of shades" to describe a wide variety of colors. For example, "The sunset displayed a beautiful "spectrum of shades", from vibrant oranges to deep purples."

What's a good alternative to "spectrum of shades"?

Alternatives include "range of shades", "variety of shades", or "palette of shades" depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "spectrum of shades" to describe opinions or emotions?

While "spectrum" can be used for abstract concepts like opinions or emotions, "shades" is typically reserved for colors. It's better to use "spectrum" with nouns like "opinions", "views", or "emotions" directly. For example: "a "spectrum of opinions"".

What is the difference between "spectrum of shades" and "color spectrum"?

"Color spectrum" refers to the complete range of colors visible to the human eye, while "spectrum of shades" describes a specific selection or range of colors within that broader spectrum. It's more about specific colors or hues within a certain subset.