English speakers often come across certain expressions that can cause confusion in usage, even among native speakers. One such example is the phrase spanning across. While it sounds natural to some, others argue that it is redundant or grammatically unnecessary. Understanding the distinction between spanning and spanning across is important, especially for writers aiming to use clear, concise, and grammatically sound language. This topic will explore the meaning, usage, and appropriateness of both forms in written and spoken English, offering examples and guidance for correct use.
Understanding the Meaning of Spanning
The word span is both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to extend over a certain area, time period, or range. For example, in the sentence The bridge spans the river, the word spans already includes the idea of stretching or extending across something. Therefore, the term spanning on its own often suffices to express this concept.
Examples of Spanning in a Sentence
- The conference spans five days and includes keynote speakers from around the world.
- Her career spans more than three decades in the music industry.
- The exhibit spans various cultures and historical periods.
As these examples show, spanning effectively conveys the idea of something extending over a range, whether that range is related to time, space, or categories. The addition of the word across may feel natural, but it can be unnecessary depending on context.
Spanning Across – Is It Redundant?
Grammatically speaking, some language experts consider spanning across to be a redundancy. Since span already implies coverage or extension across something, adding the word across might be repetitive. However, in common usage, spanning across is frequently heard, especially in informal writing and speech. For many people, this phrase sounds more complete or emphasizes a broader scope.
Examples of Spanning Across in Sentences
- The railway system is spanning across multiple countries in Europe.
- The virus outbreak is spanning across several continents.
- Her influence is spanning across generations and continues to grow.
These examples illustrate that spanning across can be used without confusing the listener or reader. Yet, from a purist’s point of view, these sentences could be rewritten more concisely:
- The railway system spans multiple countries in Europe.
- The virus outbreak spans several continents.
- Her influence spans generations and continues to grow.
Formal vs Informal Usage
In formal writing, such as academic essays, research papers, and official reports, concise and precise language is preferred. In these cases, avoiding redundancy is essential. Therefore, spanning is often more appropriate than spanning across. However, in creative writing, marketing copy, or everyday conversations, spanning across may be used for added emphasis or rhythm.
When to Choose Spanning
- When writing professionally or academically.
- When aiming for clarity and conciseness.
- When the context already implies coverage or extension.
When Spanning Across Might Be Acceptable
- In casual conversation or storytelling.
- When trying to emphasize the breadth or extent.
- In poetic or lyrical writing for stylistic effect.
Common Collocations with Span
To further understand how to use span correctly, it’s helpful to look at common collocations. These are words that frequently appear together with span.
- Span the globe: Our charity organization spans the globe, helping those in need.
- Span generations: This tradition spans generations in our family.
- Span time: The novel spans a timeline of 50 years.
- Span a distance: The suspension bridge spans a distance of two miles.
None of these common collocations require the word across, because span already conveys the necessary meaning.
How Native Speakers Use Both Forms
While grammar experts may lean toward one usage, native English speakers often rely on intuition and context. In conversation or storytelling, someone might say, The rainbow was spanning across the sky, simply because it feels expressive and complete. It’s not uncommon to hear or read spanning across in news topics, speeches, or even educational content. This shows that language evolves and is shaped by habit and usage patterns as much as by grammatical rules.
Spanning vs. Spanning Across
In summary, the phrase spanning across is not necessarily wrong, but it can be seen as redundant in contexts where precision is valued. The verb span already implies coverage or extension, making the addition of across often unnecessary. Writers and speakers should consider the tone, audience, and purpose of their message when deciding which form to use. In formal settings, it is better to avoid redundancy and use spanning by itself. In casual or expressive writing, spanning across may be acceptable and even preferred.
Quick Summary of Key Points
- Span means to extend over a range or distance.
- Spanning is typically sufficient and more concise.
- Spanning across is commonly used but may be redundant.
- Choose usage based on the context: formal vs informal.
- Clarity and precision are key in professional communication.
Ultimately, understanding the difference between spanning and spanning across allows speakers and writers to communicate more effectively. While both forms are found in real-world usage, selecting the right one for your sentence can enhance clarity, flow, and impact.