Spectrum: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when talking about a wide scope of different but related things, often used in science, technology, and discussions about opinions or emotions.

• The politician's views covered a broad spectrum of issues.
• The light spectrum includes ultraviolet and infrared wavelengths.

Appropriate for discussing different levels, amounts, types within a certain limit or distance, often used in contexts like prices, temperatures, and abilities.

• The store offers a wide range of products.
• Temperatures this week will range from 20 to 30 degrees.

Best used when talking about a specific order of events, actions, or numbers where each item is related to the previous one.

• The sequence of numbers follows a logical pattern.
• The movie presents a sequence of flashbacks.

Used when referring to a collection of different items, types, or styles, highlighting differences within a group.

• There is a variety of flavors to choose from.
• The festival showcased a variety of performances.

Use this word when referring to a complete range of different things, often in a scientific or technical context.

• The visible spectrum of light includes red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet
• The political spectrum spans from conservative to liberal viewpoints

This word is commonly used to describe the extent or variety of something, from the lowest to the highest points.

• The price range of the products is between $10 and $200
• His musical taste covers a wide range, from classical to rock

Use this word when referring to the extent or breadth of a subject, activity, or project, often in a more general or abstract manner.

• The scope of the research includes both historical and modern data
• The project is broad in scope and covers multiple disciplines

This word is suitable when talking about an entire range or scale of something, often emotions, events, or activities.

• Her performance ran the gamut of emotions from joy to sorrow
• The menu offers a gamut of cuisines from all over the world

Used when referring to a wide variety of something, especially in scientific, medical, or communication contexts.

• The electromagnetic spectrum includes all kinds of light, from radio waves to gamma rays.
• There's a broad spectrum of political opinions in the community.

Used to describe the extent or scope of something, often in terms of measurements or capabilities.

• The store offers a wide range of products.
• The temperature range for today is between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius.

Used when referring to a systematic arrangement or a large number of items, often in technology or scientific contexts.

• The engineer set up an array of solar panels to capture the most sunlight.
• She presented an array of solutions to the problem.

Used when talking about variety, particularly in the context of people, cultures, or ideas.

• The city prides itself on its cultural diversity.
• Schools should promote diversity and inclusion.