were spread across

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were spread across" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the distribution or arrangement of items, people, or concepts over a certain area or among different locations. Example: "The resources were spread across various departments to ensure efficient utilization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Losses were spread across the market.

The New York Times

Helmets were spread across the floor.

The New York Times

The deaths were spread across 31 states.

The New York Times

"They were spread across farmlands, jungles, villages, rivers.

The New York Times

They were spread across the gym, lounging after a scrimmage.

The New York Times - Sports

The strong results, he noted, were spread across the bank.

The New York Times

But the strong returns were spread across the bank.

The New York Times

Losses from these sorts of bonds were spread across America.

The Economist

But people briefed on the situation said the cuts were spread across all departments.

The New York Times

The other seven cities were spread across present-day Ukraine, Egypt, Turkey and the West Bank.

The Guardian

The names were spread across two pages but the judges were not running against each other.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "were spread across" to describe the distribution of items, people, or abstract concepts over a geographical area, among categories, or within a system.

Common error

Avoid using "were spread across" when referring to a singular noun. The phrase requires a plural subject, as it describes a distribution among multiple entities or over a defined area.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were spread across" functions as a passive verb phrase indicating the distribution or scattering of a subject across a defined area, group, or category. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is widely used in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

37%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "were spread across" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase that describes the distribution or scattering of something across an area, category, or group. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted. It appears frequently in news, media, and scientific contexts, making it suitable for various communication styles. While alternatives like "were distributed across" or "were scattered throughout" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you intend to convey. Using this phrase correctly involves ensuring a plural subject and understanding its meaning in context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were distributed across

Emphasizes a planned or systematic allocation.

were allocated among

Highlights the deliberate assignment of something to different recipients.

were scattered throughout

Suggests a less organized, more random distribution.

were dispersed among

Implies a wider and less concentrated scattering.

were diffused through

Conveys a sense of gradual spreading or permeation.

were permeated throughout

Suggests a thorough saturation or infiltration.

were extended over

Indicates a reach or scope covering a particular area.

were propagated across

Focuses on the transmission or spread of something like information or a signal.

were prevalent in

Indicates a widespread presence or common occurrence within a specific location or group.

were rife throughout

Implies an abundance or excess, often with a negative connotation.

FAQs

How can I use "were spread across" in a sentence?

You can use "were spread across" to indicate the distribution of something across different areas, categories, or groups. For example, "The resources "were spread across" various departments.".

What are some alternatives to "were spread across"?

Alternatives include "were distributed across", "were scattered throughout", or "were dispersed among", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "was spread across" instead of "were spread across"?

No, "was spread across" is only correct when referring to a singular subject. When referring to multiple items or a plural subject, use ""were spread across"".

What is the difference between "were spread across" and "were allocated to"?

"Were spread across" suggests a distribution over an area or among categories, while "were allocated to" implies a specific assignment to particular recipients or purposes. The first indicates distribution, and the second, a directed assignment.