to distribute

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to distribute" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of giving out or spreading something, such as information, resources, or materials. Example: "The organization aims to distribute food and supplies to those in need during the crisis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I want to distribute it to everybody".

The New Yorker

It is devilishly difficult to distribute blame.

The New York Times

Easy to distribute, even to remote places?

The New York Times

You need to distribute widely".

The Guardian - Tech

Tilt pan to distribute caramel.

The New York Times - Magazine

Add eggs and stir to distribute.

The New York Times - Food

It only knows how to distribute it.

The New York Times

Toss together to distribute the seasonings.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Give it to MGM to distribute".

The New York Times

We try to distribute the time evenly".

The New York Times

But they have to distribute the food".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to distribute", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being distributed and to whom or where. For example, specify whether you're distributing information, goods, or responsibilities.

Common error

Avoid using "to distribute" without specifying the recipient. For instance, instead of saying "We need to distribute," clarify with "We need "to distribute" the pamphlets to local businesses."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to distribute" primarily functions as an infinitive, often serving as a verb complement or expressing purpose. As Ludwig AI suggests, it signifies the action of dividing and dispensing something among multiple recipients or locations. This is supported by numerous examples where it introduces an action of allocation or spreading.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Wiki

31%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to distribute" is a grammatically sound and versatile infinitive phrase used to describe the act of allocating or spreading something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it finds common application across diverse domains, from news and media to scientific literature. The most frequent contexts include News & Media, Wiki, and Science. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding what is being distributed and to whom. Alternatives such as "to allocate" and "to disseminate" can be considered for nuanced meaning. While generally neutral in register, it is suitable for both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to allocate

Focuses on assigning or designating something for a specific purpose.

to disseminate

Emphasizes the act of spreading information or knowledge widely.

to circulate

Highlights the movement of something among a group or area.

to dispense

Implies giving out portions of something, often in a controlled manner.

to hand out

Suggests a direct and personal method of giving something to individuals.

to spread

Indicates the act of covering an area with something or making it more widely available.

to apportion

Means to divide and allocate proportionally.

to allocate resources

Specific to the distribution of resources, implying a strategic allocation.

to administer

Relates to managing and distributing something, often with a formal process.

to provide

Offers a general term for supplying or making something available.

FAQs

How can I use "to distribute" in a sentence?

You can use "to distribute" to describe the act of giving out or spreading something. For example, "The charity aims "to distribute" food to the needy" or "The company plans "to distribute" its products nationwide".

What are some alternatives to "to distribute"?

You can use alternatives such as "to allocate", "to disseminate", or "to circulate" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "to distribute" and "to dispense"?

"To distribute" generally means to give out or spread something, while "to dispense" often implies giving out portions of something in a controlled or regulated manner. They are similar, but "to dispense" carries a connotation of careful allocation.

When is it appropriate to use "to distribute" in formal writing?

"To distribute" is suitable for formal writing when describing the organized allocation or dissemination of resources, information, or responsibilities. It is a neutral and widely understood term.