spotlights

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "spotlights" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a noun to refer to a strong beam of light usually used to illuminate an area or an object. Example sentence: The spotlights illuminated the stage, creating a surreal atmosphere.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The way the ceiling is moulded and the way the interior is softly lit with LED spotlights almost suggest a plane cabin rather than a bus.

The Guardian - Arts

However, away from the media and diplomatic spotlights, the state of Queensland has been undergoing radical political reform and experiencing unprecedented threats to civil liberties.

The Guardian

Rooms from €285 to €795, [phone], l-hotel.com Decked out in flightcase furniture and stage spotlights, the hotel has been designed to house touring bands in familiar surroundings.

The Guardian - Travel

And now he was preparing to stand under spotlights and bow his head before them.

The Guardian

The large show now open in Italy, "Thermal Deco", spotlights objects designed by Galileo Chini between 1912 and 1923 for the Berzieri thermal baths at Salsomaggiore.

The Economist

THE latest issue of Charlie Hebdo, a satirical French magazine, spotlights Michel Houellebecq, author of a new novel that imagines the Islamisation of France and then the European Union.

The Economist

Amid swirling dry ice and roving spotlights, a famous troupe called The Sex Bomb Dancers gyrated and squirmed; the Philippines' best-known comedian performed a stand-up routine, and assorted movie and television stars rallied the cheering crowd of thousands.

The Economist

After nightfall, he made a break for it, under the spotlights set up by his captors.

The Economist

Singers and musicians, baking under spotlights, are even more uncomfortable; most orchestras still insist that men players wear dinner jackets and bow ties, even when performing in a microclimate that resembles the Amazonian rainforest.

The Economist

It spotlights the gem that was later to give the style its name.

The Economist

A few days later, police shot dead Abdul Numan Haider, a Melbourne teenager who was an apparent terror suspect, after he attacked two officers with a knife.The dramas have shone media spotlights on Australia's Muslims, many located in the outer suburbs of Sydney and Melbourne.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a performance or event, use "spotlights" to create vivid imagery of directed, focused light.

Common error

Avoid using the singular form "spotlight" when referring to multiple light sources; use "spotlights" to maintain grammatical accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The term "spotlights" functions primarily as a plural noun, referring to multiple focused light sources. As noted by Ludwig, it correctly identifies the word as usable in written English. The examples on Ludwig showcase its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Encyclopedias

9%

Independent

28%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "spotlights" is a grammatically correct and frequently used term, primarily functioning as a plural noun to describe focused light sources or metaphorical attention. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usability is broad, spanning various contexts from news and media to encyclopedic descriptions. The frequency analysis indicates its common usage in news and media, with a neutral register suitable for diverse communication needs. While the term mainly denotes light, it's important to consider metaphorical applications for a more compelling delivery.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highlights

Emphasizes important aspects or details, moving away from literal light.

emphasizes

Similar to "highlights", but with a stronger sense of importance or significance.

searchlights

Refers to powerful lights used for scanning, often in a military or security context. This alternative emphasize the searching aspect of lights.

illuminates

Focuses on the action of providing light, which can be literal or metaphorical.

emphasizes significantly

Adds intensity to the act of emphasis, showing a stronger focus.

floodlights

Indicates broad, diffused lighting, different from the focused beam of spotlights.

draws attention to

Indicates attracting notice, often to a specific subject or detail.

stage lights

Specifically refers to lighting used in theatrical or performance settings.

brings to the forefront

Highlights by moving something to the front, emphasizing its importance.

focuses attention on

Shifts the focus from lighting to directing attention, highlighting importance.

FAQs

How can I use "spotlights" in a sentence?

You can use "spotlights" to describe literal lighting, such as "The stage was bathed in bright "spotlights"". Or, metaphorically, as in, "Recent events have put the issue under the "spotlights"".

What's the difference between "spotlights" and "floodlights"?

"Spotlights" produce a focused beam of light, ideal for highlighting specific areas or objects, while "floodlights" cast a broad, diffused light over a larger area.

What are some synonyms for "spotlights" when referring to attention?

When "spotlights" refers to public attention, alternatives include phrases like "the "limelight"", "public eye", or "media "attention"".

Is it correct to say "spotlights are" or "spotlights is"?

"Spotlights" is a plural noun, so it requires a plural verb. The correct form is "spotlights are".