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Spreading: meaning, definitions and examples

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spreading

 

[ˈsprɛdɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

social media

The act of sharing content or information with a wide audience through social media platforms.

Synonyms

dissemination, distribution, sharing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spreading

Used to describe the act of extending something over a large area or among many people. Commonly used for abstract concepts like information, rumors, or diseases.

  • The spreading of false information caused a lot of confusion.
  • The virus is spreading rapidly throughout the country.
sharing

Used in casual and informal contexts to describe the act of giving others access to something, whether it be information, resources, or experiences. Often implies a sense of community or collaboration.

  • Sharing knowledge within the team helped us complete the project faster.
  • She is always sharing interesting articles on social media.
dissemination

Typically used in formal or academic settings to describe the act of distributing information or knowledge widely. Often associated with publications, research, or official statements.

  • The dissemination of research findings is crucial for scientific progress.
  • The government focused on the dissemination of public health guidelines.
distribution

Generally refers to the process of supplying goods or services to various locations or people. Commonly used in logistics, business, and economics.

  • The distribution of relief supplies is essential after a natural disaster.
  • The company improved its distribution network to reach more customers.

Examples of usage

  • Her spreading of fake news caused a lot of controversy.
  • The spreading of positive messages can help create a more supportive online community.
Context #2 | Noun

disease

The rapid transmission of a disease within a population.

Synonyms

infection, propagation, transmission.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spreading

Use 'spreading' when talking about the general dissemination of something, such as news, information, or substances.

  • The spreading of rumors can hurt people’s reputations.
  • The fire's spreading was halted by the efforts of the firefighters.
transmission

The term 'transmission' is ideal for discussing the act of sending or passing something from one place or person to another, often used in the context of diseases, signals, or data.

  • Transmission of the disease can occur through close contact.
  • The transmission of data between the computers was interrupted.
propagation

Opt for 'propagation' when referring to the breeding or growth, particularly of plants, ideas, or waves (like sound or light waves). Often used in scientific or formal contexts.

  • The propagation of these plants is essential for the restoration of the species.
  • Scientists studied the propagation of light through different mediums.
infection

Using 'infection' is most appropriate in medical contexts when discussing diseases or pathogens invading a body.

  • The doctor warned her about the risk of infection if the wound wasn't properly cleaned.
  • An infection can cause fever and other serious symptoms.

Examples of usage

  • The spreading of the virus was difficult to control.
  • Preventative measures were put in place to stop the spreading of the illness.
Context #3 | Adjective

butter

A descriptive term for butter that is easily spreadable.

Synonyms

smooth, soft, spreadable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spreading

This term is often used when something is being dispersed or distributed over a wide area. It can relate to physical objects, ideas, or even diseases.

  • The news of their engagement is spreading quickly.
  • The gardener is spreading fertilizer over the lawn.
spreadable

This term specifically refers to the quality of a substance that allows it to be easily applied or smeared on a surface, often related to food products like butter or cheese.

  • This butter is very spreadable and perfect for toast.
  • The cream cheese is spreadable and easy to apply on bagels.
soft

This is ideal for describing textures that are easy to touch, press, or mold. It might also refer to gentle and kind personalities or atmospheres.

  • The pillow is very soft.
  • He has a soft voice.
smooth

This word is best used for describing textures or surfaces that are even and free of roughness or lumps. It can also refer to actions or processes that proceed without obstacles.

  • She has smooth skin.
  • The transition from school to college was smooth.

Examples of usage

  • This spreading butter is perfect for toast.
  • She bought spreading margarine for the sandwiches.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old English 'sperdan', which means 'to move outwards or stretch'.
  • In Middle English, it was used to describe the action of distributing something over a surface.

Science

  • In biology, spreading can refer to how certain species expand their habitats or territories.
  • The spread of diseases often follows patterns based on movement and contact, showcasing how interconnected living beings are.

Culinary Arts

  • Spreading is a common technique in cooking, such as spreading frosting on cakes or spreading dips on crackers.
  • Different spreads (like jams or butter) enhance flavors and textures in meals, making them more enjoyable.

Technology

  • In the digital age, information can spread rapidly through social media, affecting public opinion quickly.
  • Viruses can spread through computer networks, similar to how a cold moves between people.

Culture

  • Certain cultural practices, like dance or music, often spread from one community to another, enriching traditions.
  • The concept of 'spreading love' in many cultures emphasizes the importance of kindness and generosity in social interactions.

Translations

Translations of the word "spreading" in other languages:

🇵🇹 disseminação

🇮🇳 फैलाव

🇩🇪 Verbreitung

🇮🇩 penyebaran

🇺🇦 поширення

🇵🇱 rozprzestrzenianie

🇯🇵 拡散 (kakusan)

🇫🇷 diffusion

🇪🇸 difusión

🇹🇷 yayılma

🇰🇷 확산 (hwaksan)

🇸🇦 انتشار (intishar)

🇨🇿 šíření

🇸🇰 šírenie

🇨🇳 传播 (chuánbò)

🇸🇮 širjenje

🇮🇸 útbreiðsla

🇰🇿 таралым

🇬🇪 გავრცელება (gavrtseleba)

🇦🇿 yayılma

🇲🇽 difusión

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,699, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.