Spreading: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.