various lines

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "various lines" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to multiple lines of text, thought, or argument in a discussion or written work. Example: "The poem explores various lines of thought regarding love and loss."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Academia

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They were standing in the various lines that were notorious inside the center.

The New York Times

He pointed out various lines in the drawing, ranging from quite dark to almost invisible.

The New Yorker

Internal battles persist in Labor over where to draw the various lines.

The Guardian

NET INCOME IS $116,156 Reports Made by Other Corporations in Various Lines for Different Periods.

The New York Times

A subway system, the Metro, serves Madrid with various lines that extend throughout the city.

Britannica

Developmental biologists had been pondering two main possibilities-each supported by various lines of research.

Stanford University

Various lines of evidence suggest that sleep disorders may negatively affect neuronal plasticity and cognitive function.

Stanford University

The various lines will be like corporate teams, like divisions of General Foods with each brand competing against the others.

The New York Times

Last month, the company agreed to pay Madonna roughly $120 million for a share of her various lines of business.

The New York Times

Today, in the Waterford Wedgwood showroom here on Piccadilly the various lines of china are piled up bargain-basement style.

The New York Times

Adam's genius lay in his synthesis of these various lines of development.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "various lines", ensure the context clearly defines what 'lines' refers to, whether they are lines of reasoning, products, or physical lines such as transportation routes.

Common error

Avoid using "various lines" when a more specific term would provide clarity. For instance, instead of "various lines of inquiry", consider "multiple investigative approaches" if you are referring to an investigation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "various lines" functions as a determiner phrase, where 'various' modifies the noun 'lines'. It is used to indicate multiple, diverse instances of the noun. As confirmed by Ludwig, this expression is deemed grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "various lines" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for indicating multiple and diverse instances of a noun, as affirmed by Ludwig. Its usage spans diverse contexts, from news and media to scientific research and general web content. While its formality remains generally neutral, the specific context dictates the overall tone. For alternative expressions, you might consider "different avenues", "multiple strands", or "assorted routes". Remember to maintain clarity in your writing by clearly defining what the "lines" refer to, and avoid using the phrase when more precise language would improve understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

different avenues

Changes the metaphor from 'lines' to 'avenues', suggesting different paths or approaches.

multiple strands

Replaces 'lines' with 'strands', implying interconnected or interwoven elements.

diverse approaches

Substitutes 'lines' with 'approaches', focusing on different methods or strategies.

assorted routes

Uses 'routes' instead of 'lines', often applicable in contexts involving paths or methods.

several courses

Replaces 'lines' with 'courses', suitable when discussing different paths or directions.

varied strategies

Emphasizes different strategies or plans instead of literal lines.

numerous methods

Focuses on different methods or techniques, replacing the 'lines' concept.

range of options

Shifts the focus to a set of available choices or alternatives.

spectrum of possibilities

Presents a wide range of options or potential outcomes.

collection of viewpoints

Highlights different perspectives or opinions, diverging from the literal meaning of 'lines'.

FAQs

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

You can use "various lines" to refer to multiple paths, routes, or approaches. For example: "The subway system has "various lines" that serve different parts of the city."

What are some alternatives to "various lines"?

Alternatives to "various lines" include "different approaches", "multiple strands", or "assorted routes" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "various lines" or "different lines"?

Both "various lines" and "different lines" are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. The choice depends on stylistic preference. "Various" emphasizes diversity, while "different" highlights distinction.

What does "various lines of evidence" mean?

"Various lines of evidence" refers to multiple independent sources of data or arguments that support a particular conclusion. It suggests a convergence of different findings pointing to the same result.