a broad assertion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a broad assertion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a statement or claim that is general and lacks specificity or detail. Example: "The author's argument is based on a broad assertion that all technology is harmful without considering the nuances of its impact."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

That is a broad assertion of executive authority that clearly left some justices uncomfortable.

The New York Times

She was also more involved than previously known in helping to coordinate the Clinton White House defense against the investigation into the Whitewater land deal and the sexual harassment lawsuit filed by Paula Jones, arguing at one point against emphasizing a broad assertion of presidential immunity.

The New York Times

He will combine a vague imputation against the largest possible body of Muslims with a broad assertion that Israel has no interest in religious war.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx replaced three members of Metro's board last week, part of a broader assertion of federal authority over the system, which has been plagued by safety problems.

Los Angeles Times

This maybe isn't even a lie, just an incredibly broad assertion that tries to shift the argument away from what's actually happening to the abstract motivations of people involved in the debate.

Vice

This patchwork approach has revealed a flexibility in the justice system but also what critics call an overly broad assertion of presidential authority.

The New York Times

On the possibility of a mandatory retirement age, Sellers pointed to the US Constitution's broad assertion that judges "shall hold their office during good behavior" and federal law establishing voluntary retirement conditions.

Vice

He is rarely shy about the broad assertion, or about the perfect poison insult, delivered with a smile.

The New Yorker

Morsi's broad assertion of control came less than 24 hours after a diplomatic triumph in arranging the cease-fire in Gaza had given new credence to Morsi's international bona fides.

Independent

That broad assertion of power, even with limits described by administration officials, combined with the initial White House refusal to release even a sanitized summary of the memo touched off protests from left and right.

The New York Times

Because I rejected the Nixon administration's use of national security as a pretext for broad assertions of unchecked executive power, I became engaged with the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act when it was proposed in the early 1970s.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a broad assertion", ensure you provide context or supporting evidence to avoid ambiguity. Clarify what specific aspects are being asserted and why.

Common error

Avoid making "a broad assertion" without providing specific examples or data to back it up. Unsupported generalizations can weaken your argument and credibility.

Linguistic Context

"A broad assertion" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It acts as the subject or object of a sentence, referring to a statement characterized by its generality. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. The examples show it used in contexts discussing executive authority, political debate, and control assertions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a broad assertion" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a general statement lacking specific details. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it commonly appears in news and media contexts, serving to identify statements that require further clarification or evidence. While the phrase itself is neutral, it often invites critical analysis due to its lack of specificity. When incorporating this phrase into your writing, be mindful to avoid overgeneralization and always follow up with supporting information to add credibility to your arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sweeping statement

Replaces "assertion" with a more forceful term, emphasizing the wide-ranging nature of the statement.

a general claim

Uses a more neutral term, "claim", and emphasizes the generality of the statement.

a wide-ranging statement

Highlights the extensive scope of the statement being made.

an overarching argument

Implies a main argument that encompasses many aspects.

a comprehensive declaration

Suggests a thorough and complete statement.

a blanket statement

Indicates a statement that applies to everything without exception.

a sweeping generalization

Highlights the lack of specific details and the tendency to apply broadly.

an unsubstantiated claim

Emphasizes the lack of evidence supporting the assertion.

a categorical statement

Implies a statement made without any qualifications or conditions.

a grandiose claim

Suggests an exaggerated or inflated statement.

FAQs

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

You can use "a broad assertion" to describe a statement or claim that is general and lacks specific details. For example, "The criticism was based on "a broad assertion" about the company's values."

What are some alternatives to saying "a broad assertion"?

Alternatives to "a broad assertion" include "a sweeping statement", "a general claim", or "a wide-ranging statement". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "a broad assertion" and "a specific claim"?

"A broad assertion" is a general statement without detailed support, while "a specific claim" is a focused statement with supporting evidence. One lacks details; the other provides them.

When is it appropriate to use "a broad assertion" in writing?

Use "a broad assertion" when summarizing a general viewpoint or introducing a topic before delving into specifics. However, always follow up with supporting details to avoid overgeneralization.