As broad as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "As broad as" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in comparisons to describe something that has a wide extent or range. Example: "The river was as broad as the horizon, stretching far into the distance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Our common interests are as broad as the continent".

The New Yorker

"Almost no museums have Adams collections as broad as this," Mr. Smith said.

The New York Times - Arts

Most of the humor in "Maybe Baby" isn't as broad as Mr. Atkinson's hilarious turn.

The New York Times

The NYRB's field was as broad as they wanted it to be.

The Guardian - Film

He wore a green uniform and an officer's cap as broad as a dinner plate.

The New Yorker

Others are as broad as the atmosphere, including treaties that ban ozone-destroying chemicals.

The New York Times - Science

Her comedy of self-betterment is as broad as her comedy of anger and disorientation.

The New York Times - Arts

But the capabilities they offer are not as broad as other agencies".

The New Yorker

-- hospitable, liberating and as broad as the dry, grassy plains around town.

The New York Times

The goals of today's filmmakers are as broad as those of their predecessors.

The New York Times

I asked Haass whether there is a doctrine emerging that is as broad as Kennan's containment.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as broad as" to describe the range or scope of a topic, concept, or area. For example, "Her understanding of the subject was as broad as her experience."

Common error

Avoid using "as broad as" when a more specific measurement or qualification is needed. For instance, instead of saying "The table was as broad as possible", use a precise measurement like "The table was 10 feet wide."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as broad as" primarily functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It's used to describe something by comparing its width, scope, or range to something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English, and it serves to illustrate the extent or magnitude of the subject.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

7%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as broad as" is a versatile comparative adjective phrase used to describe the extent, range, or scope of something by relating it to another entity. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for various contexts. Its frequency and usage patterns indicate that it is commonly found in news and media, scientific publications, and formal business communications. When writing, it's crucial to consider if a more specific measurement might be more appropriate for clarity. By understanding its function, purpose, and common usages, writers can effectively employ "as broad as" to enhance their descriptions and comparisons.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

As wide as

Replaces "broad" with "wide", focusing on the measurement of distance from side to side. It focuses more on physical extent.

As extensive as

Replaces "broad" with "extensive", emphasizing the range and comprehensiveness. It shifts the focus to scope and coverage.

As comprehensive as

Replaces "broad" with "comprehensive", stressing the completeness and thoroughness. This emphasizes the detail and inclusivity of something.

As vast as

Replaces "broad" with "vast", highlighting the immense size or scale. It is particularly suited when talking about area or expanse.

Comparable in scope to

Restructures the comparison to focus on the scope being similar, adding a level of formality. Changes sentence structure to focus on scope.

On par with in breadth

Uses "on par" to indicate equality in breadth, which is a more formal way to express the comparison. It uses more formal vocabulary and emphasizes equality.

Matches in range with

Emphasizes the similarity in range or variety, slightly shifting the focus to diversity. Emphasizes variety rather than size.

Equivalent in expanse to

Focuses on the equality of the expanse, often used in geographical or spatial contexts. Best suited to spatial descriptions.

Of similar magnitude to

Emphasizes the size or importance being alike, often used in scientific or technical contexts. Emphasizes importance in scientific contexts.

As all-encompassing as

Replaces "broad" with "all-encompassing", emphasizing the comprehensive nature. Places high emphasis on the inclusion of many elements.

FAQs

How can I use "as broad as" in a sentence?

Use "as broad as" to compare the width, scope, or range of something to another object or concept. For example, "The river was "as broad as" the eye could see" or "The definition of art is "as broad as" human imagination".

What are some alternatives to "as broad as"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "as wide as", "as extensive as", "as comprehensive as", or "as vast as".

When is it appropriate to use "as broad as" over "as wide as"?

"As broad as" is generally used for abstract concepts or general measurements, while "as wide as" typically refers to physical width. For example, "his influence was as broad as the entire industry" versus "the road was as wide as four lanes".

Is "as broad as" considered formal or informal language?

"As broad as" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the specific comparison being made.