Sweeping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งน
sweeping
[หswiหpษชล ]
Definitions
cleaning
Covering a wide area in a systematic and thorough way.
Synonyms
comprehensive, extensive, thorough.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sweeping |
Best used to describe broad and impactful changes or actions that affect many aspects of a situation or organization.
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| comprehensive |
Appropriate when referring to something that covers all or nearly all aspects of a subject or area.
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| extensive |
Used to describe something that is large in amount or scale, often in terms of coverage or range.
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| thorough |
Ideal for situations where something is done with great care and completeness, leaving no part unfinished.
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Examples of usage
- The sweeping view from the top of the mountain was breathtaking.
- She did a sweeping job of cleaning the entire house.
political
An act of bringing about sweeping changes or reforms.
Synonyms
drastic, far-reaching, radical.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sweeping |
Use this word when describing changes or actions that are extensive and affect many aspects. It often conveys a sense of thoroughness and might be neutral or have a positive connotation.
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| drastic |
This word is often used when referring to very substantial and sudden changes, usually implying urgency or necessity. It can have a negative connotation if the changes are seen as severe or excessive.
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| far-reaching |
This term is best used when changes or effects are extensive and influential, impacting a wide range of areas or people. It often emphasizes the breadth of impact.
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| radical |
Use this word to describe changes or actions that are fundamental, extreme, and often revolutionary. It can have both positive and negative connotations depending on the perspective.
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Examples of usage
- The new government promised to make sweeping reforms in the education system.
- The sweeping of corruption from the political system was a challenging task.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'sweeping'
The word 'sweeping' originated from the Old English word 'swapan', which meant 'to clean or clear by the use of a broom'. Over time, the meaning of 'sweeping' expanded to encompass the idea of covering a wide area comprehensively. The term has been used in various contexts, including cleaning, politics, and literature, to convey the sense of thoroughness and extensive coverage.
See also: sweep, sweeper, sweepstakes.