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Broad Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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broad

[brɔːd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

description

having a wide range or extent; wide

Synonyms

comprehensive, extensive, wide.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
broad

Ideal for describing something very wide in physical dimensions or to refer to general, non-specific categories.

  • The river is very broad at this point.
  • She has a broad understanding of the subject.
wide

Typically used to describe physical width or to denote a large range or variety.

  • The path is wide enough for two people to walk side by side.
  • The store offers a wide selection of fresh produce.
extensive

Used to describe something large in amount or scale, often referring to areas, networks, or research.

  • The company has an extensive network of partners worldwide.
  • She has done extensive research on the topic.
comprehensive

Best used to describe something that is thorough and complete, such as detailed reports or extensive plans.

  • The book provides a comprehensive review of classical music.
  • We need a comprehensive plan to tackle climate change.

Examples of usage

  • The company has broad interests in technology and finance.
  • She has a broad knowledge of different cultures around the world.
Context #2 | Adjective

physical

having wide distance between two sides; wide

Synonyms

broadened, expanded, wide.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
broad

Similar to 'broad', but can be used more specifically in informal speech to describe someone's accent or smile.

  • He spoke English with a broad Yorkshire accent.
  • She gave a broad smile when she saw her friend.
wide

Generally used to talk about physical width but can also refer to something extensive, like a range or selection. It’s often used in more concrete contexts than 'broad'.

  • The door is wide enough for a wheelchair.
  • The shop offers a wide variety of products.
broadened

Reflects the action of making something wider or more extensive. Often used metaphorically to indicate an increase in scope or understanding.

  • Traveling has broadened his horizons.
  • The company has broadened its services to include consulting.
expanded

Emphasizes growth in size, number, or importance, often with a sense of development or increase in scope. Frequently used in both physical and abstract contexts.

  • The business expanded rapidly over the last year.
  • Her role at the company expanded to include new responsibilities.

Examples of usage

  • He has broad shoulders.
  • The river is very broad at this point.
Context #3 | Adjective

general

not limited or narrow; broad in perspective

Synonyms

all-encompassing, comprehensive, wide-ranging.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
broad

Used to describe something that is wide in scope or extent, often referring to physical dimensions or general ideas.

  • She gave a broad smile
  • The street is broad enough for two cars
wide-ranging

Used to describe something that covers a large variety of topics, subjects, or areas; often applicable in discussing diverse or varied content.

  • The discussion was wide-ranging
  • He has wide-ranging interests in science and art
comprehensive

Ideal for referring to something that is thorough and covers all details and aspects, often used in formal or detailed contexts.

  • The report was very comprehensive
  • They offered a comprehensive guide to the city
all-encompassing

Best suited for describing something that includes everything within its scope or range, often used in a more abstract or metaphorical sense.

  • Her knowledge of the subject is all-encompassing
  • They proposed an all-encompassing solution to the problem

Examples of usage

  • She has a broad understanding of the issues at hand.
  • The project aims to have a broad impact on society.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, the concept of 'broad' is associated with inclusivity, often describing people or ideas that encompass many perspectives.
  • The term is used in expressions like 'broad-minded,' which celebrates open-mindedness in individuals.

Science

  • In biology, 'broad-spectrum' refers to antibiotics that can target a wide range of bacteria, highlighting health implications.
  • The concept of 'broadband' in telecommunications describes high-speed internet that can support multiple services and users simultaneously.

Literature

  • William Shakespeare used the adjective in several of his plays to convey vastness, both in physical space and emotional depth.
  • Poets often use 'broad' to evoke imagery of expansive landscapes or feelings, suggesting depth and universality in their works.

Education

  • Educational curricula that are described as 'broad' tend to cover a wide range of subjects, preparing students with diverse knowledge.
  • Broad learning refers to obtaining knowledge across various disciplines, which is often seen as beneficial for critical thinking.

Origin of 'broad'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English 'bræde,' meaning wide or broad.
  • It has Germanic roots and is related to similar words in Dutch and German, all reflecting the concept of width.

The word 'broad' originates from the Old English word 'brād', meaning 'broad, flat, open'. Over time, the meaning has evolved to encompass a variety of contexts, from physical width to extensive knowledge or perspective. The word has been used in English for centuries to describe a wide range of objects and concepts, reflecting its versatility and adaptability in communication.

See also: broadband, broadcast, broadcaster, broaden, broadened, broadening, broadly.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,330, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.