spreads across

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spreads across" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that extends or is distributed over a wide area or range. Example: "The influence of the internet spreads across various aspects of modern life, from communication to commerce."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Priorities are now shifting, as Syria's war spreads across continents.

The New Yorker

"Plop?" A look of purest delight spreads across his face.

The Guardian

Overnight, reaction spreads across Twitter.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Water spreads across a video screen.

The Guardian

A grin spreads across his face.

The Guardian - Sport

A slow, wry smile spreads across his face.

The New York Times

As she looks up, a smile spreads across her face.

The Guardian

A cocksure smirk spreads across Clyde Barrow's (Warren Beatty) face.

The Guardian - Film

A look of utter disgust spreads across her face.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

A look of incredulity spreads across her face.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Liese picks it up and relief spreads across her face.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "spreads across" to vividly describe how an idea, influence, or physical substance covers or impacts a large area or range. For instance, "The news quickly spreads across social media."

Common error

Avoid using "spreads across" when a more precise verb would better suit the specific context. For example, instead of "The paint spreads across the canvas," consider "covers" or "is applied to" if the action is controlled and deliberate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spreads across" functions as a verb phrase indicating the expansion or distribution of something over an area. It's used to describe both physical phenomena (like water spreading) and abstract concepts (like influence spreading), as demonstrated by Ludwig AI examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "spreads across" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the expansion or distribution of something over a given area. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and frequently appears in various contexts, particularly in news and scientific domains. While generally neutral in tone, careful selection of synonyms may enhance precision in specific scenarios. Remember that although is a common term, is important to use with precision in order to improve text quality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reaches across

Similar to extends, but with a sense of bridging or connecting different areas.

extends over

Replaces "spreads" with a more static term, suggesting coverage rather than movement.

extends throughout

Highlights the reach of something from one point to another within a defined space.

covers a wide area

Focuses on the extent of coverage, emphasizing the area affected.

diffuses through

Emphasizes gradual dispersion, often in a less structured manner.

permeates through

Implies a deeper, more thorough penetration or influence.

radiates outward

Presents the image of expanding from a central point.

sweeps over

Suggests a rapid, expansive movement or influence.

cascades through

Depicts a downward flowing effect, like a waterfall covering ground.

blankets

Implies a complete covering, like a layer spread evenly.

FAQs

How can I use "spreads across" in a sentence?

You can use "spreads across" to describe how something extends over a wide area or range. For example, "The rumor "spreads across" the entire office".

What's a good alternative to "spreads across"?

Alternatives to "spreads across" include "extends over", "reaches across", or "covers a wide area", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "spreads throughout" instead of "spreads across"?

While both are correct, "spreads throughout" implies a more complete permeation within a confined space, whereas "spreads across" suggests a broader, often less contained, area. Consider using "spreads throughout" if you want to emphasize how something permeates every part of an area.

Can "spreads across" be used metaphorically?

Yes, "spreads across" can be used metaphorically to describe the reach of abstract concepts such as influence, ideas, or emotions. For instance, "The new philosophy "spreads across" the academic community".