ENGLISH
REFERENCE

spectra

n. plural-only
C1 Advanced US //ˈspɛktɹə// UK //spˈɛktɹɐ// spec·tra

n. the plural form of spectrum. It refers to a wide range of different ideas, colors, or qualities that are related to each other.

n. the plural of 'spectrum'; refers to the distributions of light, sound, or other physical phenomena by frequency or wavelength. In a broader sense, it describes wide ranges of related ideas, qualities, or activities.


SIMPLE

Scientists study the light spectra of distant stars.

CONTEXTUAL

The researchers compared the absorption spectra of various chemical compounds to identify the unknown substance.

COMPLEX

By analyzing the emission spectra of these gases, astronomers can determine the chemical composition and temperature of nebulae located thousands of light-years away.

Synonyms
Usage

The plural form of 'spectrum'; takes a plural verb. In non-scientific contexts, 'spectrums' is sometimes used, but 'spectra' remains the standard in academic and technical writing.

Pitfall

This spectra shows a high peakThese spectra show a high peakSpectra is the plural form; it requires a plural demonstrative and verb agreement.

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