wider tires

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wider tires" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the size or specifications of tires, particularly in the context of vehicles or bicycles. Example: "For better traction and stability, many drivers prefer to install wider tires on their cars."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

The frame and rear forks have been redesigned to permit wider tires.

The New York Times

The Coopers had twin carburetors, front disc brakes, a shorter shift lever, higher gearing and wider tires.

The New York Times

Larger, heavier cars with wider tires and lower tire pressure also contributed to drag between tires and road that had to be overcome in steering, particularly in parking.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Deploying Ford's 427-cubic-inch V-8, the Cobra anticipated the challenge of big-block Corvettes, coupling a more extreme overdose of power to wider tires and the almost cartoonishly bulging bodywork needed to cover them.

The New York Times

For Mr. Prince's part, he takes special joy in imagining the day -- probably back in the Depression, when wider tires were introduced -- that a car got a flat and a planter was born.

The New York Times - Style

The steering manners in the version I drove were impeccable, most likely because the Aero weighed 400 pounds more than the Viggen, had wider tires and came with a slightly detuned four-speed automatic transmission.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

They have heavy frames, flat handlebars, wide tires and seats, simple brakes, and usually a single speed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Moreover, the wheel wells will not easily accommodate the wide tires that have become commonplace on performance cars.

The New York Times

The 1970 Yellow Jacket was a Dodge show car that also had Scat Pack attributes, including a shaker hood and wide tires.

The New York Times

In the USA, sales and use of "fat bikes" (bicycles with 75 120 mm-wide tires) have increased dramatically in the past five years.

Journal of Outdoor Recreation and Tourism

The four-door Legend is no sports car, but its four-wheel independent suspension and those wide tires on alloy wheels do make it handle well.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing performance enhancements for vehicles or bicycles, specify the exact measurements or type of "wider tires" to provide more clarity and context.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "wider tires" are universally better. Their advantages depend on the specific application and vehicle type; consider factors like terrain, weather conditions, and vehicle design.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wider tires" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "wider" modifies the noun "tires". This phrase is commonly used to describe a specific type of tire characterized by its increased width. As Ludwig highlights, the usage is correct and applicable in automotive and cycling contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

14%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

12%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "wider tires" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe tires with increased width, as confirmed by Ludwig. It typically appears in automotive and cycling contexts, specifying a characteristic that impacts vehicle performance and handling. While generally neutral in tone, its precise implications are understood best with some technical knowledge. Ludwig's examples illustrate its frequent usage across various sources, including news outlets and encyclopedias. When writing about tires, it's important to specify the exact benefits, drawbacks, and measurements associated with "wider tires" to avoid overgeneralizations, always keeping the intended application in mind.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broader tires

Replaces "wider" with a synonym, maintaining the focus on increased tire width.

larger tires

Uses "larger" as a more general term for increased tire size, which includes width.

high-flotation tires

Specifies tires designed to distribute weight over a larger surface area, similar to wider tires.

oversized tires

Implies tires that are larger than standard, including width as a key dimension.

fatter tires

An informal term for wider tires, commonly used in bicycle contexts.

wide profile tires

Focuses on the tire's profile, where "wide" indicates a larger width.

plus size tires

Refers to tires that are a size up from the standard, often wider.

wider tyre fitment

Indicates the process of fitting wider tires onto a vehicle or bicycle.

increased tire width

Rephrases the concept using a noun phrase, emphasizing the dimension of width.

expanded tire footprint

Focuses on the contact area of the tire with the ground, which is increased by wider tires.

FAQs

What are the benefits of using "wider tires"?

"Wider tires" can improve grip, handling, and stability, especially in performance vehicles or off-road conditions. They distribute weight over a larger surface area, enhancing traction.

Are "wider tires" always better than narrower ones?

Not necessarily. "Wider tires" can increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. Narrower tires may be preferable in certain conditions, such as winter driving. The optimal tire width depends on the vehicle and intended use.

What is a "plus size tire", and how does it relate to "wider tires"?

A "plus size tire" generally refers to a tire that has a larger diameter and/or width than the original equipment tire. Installing "plus size tires" is one way to achieve a wider tire footprint.

What factors should I consider when choosing "wider tires" for my vehicle?

Consider the vehicle's specifications, the intended use (e.g., racing, off-roading, daily driving), the impact on fuel efficiency, and any potential clearance issues. Consult with a tire professional for personalized recommendations.