Word
sprawling
Phoneticssprawl·ing
US/ˈspɹɔɫɪŋ/
UK/spɹˈɔːlɪŋ/
Definition
adj. spreading out over a large area in an untidy or irregular way. It often describes cities or plants that grow in many directions.
adj. spreading out over a wide area in an untidy or irregular fashion. Often describes urban development or vegetation that lacks a compact or planned structure.
Examples
“The sprawling city reaches far into the desert.”
“The hotel is a sprawling complex of white buildings connected by narrow stone paths and gardens.”
“The novel is a sprawling family saga that spans three continents and several generations, though some critics found its numerous subplots difficult to follow.”
Examples
simple
“The sprawling city reaches far into the desert.”
contextual
“The hotel is a sprawling complex of white buildings connected by narrow stone paths and gardens.”
complex
“The novel is a sprawling family saga that spans three continents and several generations, though some critics found its numerous subplots difficult to follow.”
Usage
Typically used attributively before a noun; often carries a slightly negative connotation when referring to urban planning.
Real-World Examples
“Global groups like Accenture, Concentrix and Teleperformance built sprawling campuses, employing hundreds of thousands of Filipinos.” “Critics point out that a country like China, unlike Iran, has advanced military technology and a sprawling air force, which could pose a challenge to the US military.” Word family
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/sprawling