Broadly speaking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Broadly speaking" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a generalization or an overview of a topic without going into specific details. Example: "Broadly speaking, the economy has shown signs of recovery over the past year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Broadly speaking, Australians aren't walkers.

The Guardian - Sport

Broadly speaking, they are redolent of cherries, raspberries and watermelon.

The New York Times

Broadly speaking, women are accosted more often than men.

The New York Times

Broadly speaking there are two majoritarian possibilities.

Comparative Migration Studies

Broadly speaking, Chicago was hardly a model of social order.

Latin American Economic Review

Broadly speaking, law deals in the currency of behavior.

Forbes

Broadly speaking these are agency, assignment and negotiable instruments.

Wikipedia

Broadly speaking, diabetes impairs most if not all these events.

BioMed Research International

Broadly speaking, functional connectivity can be either undirected or directed.

Cerebral Cortex

Broadly speaking, complementary therapy users fell into three categories.

BMC Health Services Research

Broadly speaking it is divided into ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke.

British Medical Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context. While appropriate in many situations, "Broadly speaking" may be too informal for highly technical or academic writing where precision is paramount.

Common error

Avoid using "Broadly speaking" to introduce statements that are based on limited data or personal opinions. Ensure there is sufficient evidence to support the generalization you are making.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Broadly speaking" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying the sentence to indicate that the statement is a generalization or an overview. It introduces a perspective that is not necessarily true in every single case but is generally valid. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

35%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Broadly speaking" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to introduce generalizations or overviews. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's important to ensure the generalization is supported by evidence to avoid oversimplification. Alternatives like "generally speaking" and "in general terms" offer similar functionality. By understanding its function and appropriate context, writers can effectively use "Broadly speaking" to provide useful context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Generally speaking

A direct synonym, offering an almost identical meaning and usage.

In general terms

Similar in meaning, but focuses more on the lack of specific details.

On the whole

Implies a judgment or summary after considering different aspects.

By and large

Indicates that something is mostly true, despite some exceptions.

In most cases

Highlights that the statement is true for the majority of instances.

For the most part

Similar to 'in most cases', but with a slightly stronger emphasis.

Overall

Provides a summary or general impression based on all available information.

As a rule

Indicates that something is typically true or common.

In the main

Similar to 'overall' but can also mean 'primarily'.

On average

Indicates a typical or representative value based on data.

FAQs

How can I use "Broadly speaking" in a sentence?

"Broadly speaking" is typically used at the beginning of a sentence to introduce a generalization or summary. For example, "Broadly speaking, the new policy has been well-received".

What are some alternatives to "Broadly speaking"?

Alternatives include "generally speaking", "in general terms", "on the whole", and "by and large", depending on the specific context.

Is "Broadly speaking" formal or informal?

"Broadly speaking" is suitable for most contexts but might be perceived as slightly informal in very formal or academic writing. Consider the tone and audience when deciding whether to use it.

What's the difference between "Broadly speaking" and "Specifically speaking"?

"Broadly speaking" introduces a general statement, while "Specifically speaking" introduces a more detailed or precise point. They serve opposite purposes in communication.