sweeping lines

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sweeping lines" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe broad, graceful, or flowing lines in various contexts, such as art, design, or writing. Example: "The artist's painting featured sweeping lines that created a sense of movement and fluidity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Use sweeping lines.

The New York Times - Arts

Its magnificent three fins and sweeping lines retain their allure.

The Guardian - Arts

These harmoniously choreographed, Miróesque constellations of sweeping lines and biomorphic shapes might be Platonic models for an ecology of mind and soul (Johnson).

The New York Times - Arts

A panorama of stone walls and emerald green paddies starting high on the mountainsides of four converging valleys cascaded down the hillside, layer after layer of perfectly contoured sweeping lines.

The Guardian - Travel

In Greece, 1896 is not that old, but Panathinaiko Stadium has an ageless feel to it -- no luxury boxes, no seat backs, no advertising, just sweeping lines, built into a hill.

The New York Times - Sports

Hand-crafted of aluminum sheet in a tradition that runs back to the beginning of the automotive industry, the BMW Zagato Coupe is composed around a theme of sweeping lines up front, the styling house's trademark double-bubble roof and a sliced-off rear.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

The "M" was half the size of the "R," which ended in a sweeping line that suggested the cellist's final flourish in the Dvořák concerto.

The New Yorker

The High Street opens from the quay, and under various names it winds in a gently sweeping line for one mile and a half, and is of very handsome width.

Wikipedia

The crisp styling gives the sedan an athletic appearance intended to appeal more to men; in contrast, Acura officials say, women favored the sweeping, softer lines of the previous model.

The New York Times

It's all about individuality," said the designer Consuelo Castiglioni, referring to slender, calf-length dresses and skirts, worn with sports caps and sandals; or to pants cut on sweeping rounded lines and with deep cuffs; or further still to the contrast of amplified floral prints and of fluffy flowery peplums on white jackets.

The New York Times

She unfurls sweeping vocal lines without ornamentation and in perfect pitch.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical descriptions, ensure the context clearly defines what is being swept or spanned by the lines to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "sweeping lines" in technical writing where precise measurements or specifications are required. Opt for more specific terms like 'curved trajectory' or 'arcuate path' to maintain clarity and accuracy.

Linguistic Context

Nominal Phrase: The phrase "sweeping lines" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object in a sentence. As indicated by Ludwig, it correctly describes the visual characteristics of designs, landscapes, or even abstract concepts like musical melodies.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sweeping lines" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively describes broad, continuous curves and is often used in the context of art, architecture, and design. It appears frequently in news and media sources, as well as encyclopedias, indicating a neutral register and widespread applicability. When writing, consider the context to ensure its usage aligns with the intended sense of grandeur or fluidity. Alternative phrases like "graceful arcs" or "flowing contours" may be suitable depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broad curves

Focuses on the curvature being wide and extensive.

graceful arcs

Emphasizes the elegance and smoothness of the curved forms.

flowing contours

Highlights the continuous and fluid nature of the outlines.

gentle curves

Underscores the softness and subtlety of the bends.

long curves

Indicates the extended length of the curved forms.

undulating forms

Suggests a wave-like movement in the shapes.

curvilinear patterns

Refers to designs characterized by curved lines.

elegant bends

Highlights the refined and stylish nature of the curves.

smooth curves

Focuses on the seamless and even nature of the curved forms.

wide arcs

Emphasizes the broad span of the curved shapes.

FAQs

How can I use "sweeping lines" in a sentence?

You can use "sweeping lines" to describe the visual characteristics of objects or designs. For instance, "The architect incorporated "sweeping lines" into the building's facade to create a modern aesthetic."

What are some alternatives to "sweeping lines"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "sweeping lines" include "broad curves", "graceful arcs", or "flowing contours".

Is it correct to use "sweeping lines" to describe music?

Yes, "sweeping lines" can be used metaphorically in music to describe melodies or phrases that are broad and continuous. For example, "The composer crafted "sweeping lines" in the string section to evoke a sense of longing."

What's the difference between "sweeping lines" and "straight lines"?

"Sweeping lines" refer to curved or arcing lines that extend broadly, whereas "straight lines" are direct and uncurved. The former suggests fluidity and movement, while the latter implies rigidity and directness.