wide-spread (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Adjective

Phonetic Transcription

/wʌɪdˈsprɛd/

Meaning and Usage

The term "wide-spread" (often spelled as "widespread") refers to something that is distributed over a large area, affecting or occurring in many places, or prevalent. It indicates a condition, event, or phenomenon that is broadly experienced or noticeable. The word is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, especially in discussions related to social issues, health, and environmental phenomena.

The frequency of use is notably high in media, research articles, and reports, as it often relates to significant topics that require public awareness.

Example Sentences

1. The wide-spread use of smartphones has changed how we communicate.

2. Использование смартфонов широко изменило то, как мы общаемся.

3. The disease had a wide-spread impact on the local population.

4. Заболевание оказало широкое воздействие на местное население.

5. There is a wide-spread belief that exercise improves mental health.

6. Существует широко распространенное мнение, что физические упражнения улучшают психическое здоровье.

Idiomatic Expressions

The term "wide-spread" can be a part of several idiomatic expressions that convey the idea of prevalence or commonality. Below are some examples:

1. "A wide-spread phenomenon"

2. "Широко распространенное явление" can refer to recognizable trends across various fields, such as climate change or digital technology impacts.

3. "Wide-spread panic"

4. "Широкая паника" describes a situation where fear spreads quickly among a large group of people, often during emergencies.

5. "Wide-spread acceptance"

6. "Широкая приемлемость" indicates that a particular idea or practice has been largely adopted or approved by society or a group of people.

7. "Wide-spread criticism"

8. "Широкая критика" signifies widespread negative feedback or objections towards a person, policy, or idea.

9. "A wide-spread network"

10. "Широкая сеть" describes an extensive system or group that connects individuals or businesses across various locations.

Etymology

The word "wide-spread" combines two elements: "wide," derived from Old English "wīd," meaning "broad, ample," and "spread," which originates from the Old English "spearcan," meaning "to spread out, scatter." The term emerged in the English language around the late 19th century as societies began to communicate about phenomena that impacted many people or areas.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Extensive - Broad - Common - Prevailing

Antonyms: - Limited - Restricted - Narrow - Insignificant