widespread disruption

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "widespread disruption" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where significant disturbances or interruptions occur over a large area or among many people. Example: "The storm caused widespread disruption to transportation services, leaving many travelers stranded."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Flooding caused widespread disruption for commuters.

The Guardian

And they predicted widespread disruption next month.

The Guardian

Snow caused widespread disruption on Friday.

The Guardian

The BBC admitted it expected widespread disruption to services.

The Guardian

"The planned action will undoubtedly cause widespread disruption to NHS services.

The Guardian

Meanwhile an ONH hoax bomb caused widespread disruption in north Belfast last week.

The Guardian

The strike has brought widespread disruption to schools in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The Guardian

Last year a wave of strikes led to bloodshed and widespread disruption.

The Guardian - Business

Widespread disruption in brain activation patterns to a working memory task during cocaine abstinence.

Nature

Any industrial action is likely to lead to widespread disruption on the railways.

The Guardian

Fresh strikes could cause widespread disruption to rail networks across the country.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "widespread disruption", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific area or system being affected, such as "widespread disruption to air travel" or "widespread disruption to healthcare services".

Common error

Avoid using "widespread disruption" without specifying the affected area or system. Saying "there was widespread disruption" lacks clarity; instead, specify where the disruption occurred for greater impact and understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "widespread disruption" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a state of significant interruption or disturbance affecting a large area or population. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "widespread disruption" is a commonly used and grammatically sound noun phrase that describes significant interruptions affecting large areas or populations. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It is frequently found in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, to convey the impact of events such as natural disasters, strikes, and technological failures. For clarity, it's best practice to specify the area or system experiencing the disruption. Alternatives include "extensive disturbances" and "broad interruptions".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extensive disturbances

Focuses on the broad impact of the disturbances.

broad interruptions

Highlights the extensive nature of the interruptions.

large-scale interruptions

Emphasizes the magnitude of the interruptions.

mass disturbances

Indicates widespread and significant disturbances.

extensive chaos

Stresses the chaotic nature of the disruption.

significant disorder

Highlights the substantial level of disorder caused.

far-reaching impact

Concentrates on the extensive consequences of an event.

across-the-board disturbance

Highlights that the impact is affecting everyone.

overall turbulence

Emphasizes the instability and disturbance caused.

general commotion

Highlights a state of noisy confusion or disturbance.

FAQs

How can I use "widespread disruption" in a sentence?

You can use "widespread disruption" to describe events like "The heavy snow caused widespread disruption to public transport", or "The cyberattack resulted in widespread disruption of essential services".

What are some alternatives to "widespread disruption"?

You can use alternatives like "extensive disturbances", "broad interruptions", or "large-scale interruptions" depending on the context.

What causes "widespread disruption"?

"Widespread disruption" can be caused by various factors, including natural disasters, strikes, technological failures, or political unrest. The specific cause depends on the situation.

How does "widespread disruption" affect daily life?

"Widespread disruption" can affect daily life by causing delays, cancellations, and closures of essential services. This can impact transportation, communication, healthcare, and education, among other areas.