to cover or include a period of time, an area, or a range of things, to stretch or extend across

span of control, life span, span the gamut

Formal and Informal Expressions of spans

In different contexts, you can replace 'spans' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'cover, include, extend over' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'go across, stretch over, reach over' is a commonplace synonym.

spans: Explore its Definition & Usage

spans Definition

1to cover or include a period of time, an area, or a range of things
2to stretch or extend across

Using spans: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "spans" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The bridge spans the river.
Example
Her career spans over two decades.
Example
The book spans several genres.
Example
The exhibit spans from ancient times to modern day.

spans Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for spans

cover
extend over
range over
stretch across

Phrases with spans

span of control
the number of subordinates that a manager or supervisor can directly control
Example
The CEO has a large span of control, overseeing multiple departments and managers.
life span
the length of time a person, animal, or thing is likely to live or function
Example
The life span of a dog varies by breed, with some living up to 20 years.
span the gamut
to cover a wide range of something
Example
The festival's music lineup spans the gamut from classical to rock.

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Summary: spans in Brief

The verb 'spans' [spanz] means to cover or include a period of time, an area, or a range of things. It can also mean to stretch or extend across. Examples include 'The bridge spans the river' and 'Her career spans over two decades.' Phrases include 'life span,' referring to the length of time something is likely to live or function, and 'span the gamut,' meaning to cover a wide range of something.