a broad definition of

USAGE SUMMARY

"a broad definition of" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used when discussing a topic or concept that may have multiple interpretations or variations, and a general or overarching definition is needed. Example: In order to fully understand the concept of sustainability, it is important to start with a broad definition of what it means to be environmentally, socially, and economically responsible.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's using a broad definition of unemployment.

The Guardian - Opinion

A broad definition of gossip would include the news.

The Guardian - Tech

The school applies a broad definition of homelessness.

The Guardian

He has a broad definition of a puppet.

The New Yorker

Secondly, we need a broad definition of personal data.

The New York Times

But it's usually liberals who argue for a broad definition of standing under the Constitution.

The New Yorker

A broad definition of group is intended to keep shareholders from acting in concert.

The New York Times

But now assume the commission adopts a broad definition of ring-fencing.

The New York Times

Justice Scalia said to accept a broad definition of compulsion in the prison context would lead to many problems.

The New York Times

To comply, some restaurants that emphasize local products also use a broad definition of "local," extending to Maine and Maryland.

The New York Times

About twenty-two per cent are men between the ages of eighteen and fifty-nine — a broad definition of "young".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Provide examples when using "a broad definition of" to ensure the audience understands the scope and what is included within that definition.

Common error

Avoid using "a broad definition of" without providing any specific parameters or examples, as this can lead to misunderstandings and a lack of clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a broad definition of" functions as a determiner phrase that precedes a noun, indicating that the noun it modifies (typically a concept, term, or category) is being defined in a general or inclusive manner. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a broad definition of" is a very common phrase used to introduce a concept or term that is defined in a general and inclusive way. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in various contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings. It serves to clarify that the definition provided is not limited to strict or conventional understandings but encompasses a wider range of possibilities or interpretations. When using this phrase, it is essential to provide context and examples to avoid ambiguity and ensure clarity in communication. As seen in the examples, authoritative sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian frequently employ this phrase to frame discussions and analyses.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a liberal interpretation of

Indicates a flexible and less rigid understanding, contrasting with a narrow, strict definition.

a loose construction of

Suggests a flexible and adaptable understanding, moving away from a rigid definition.

a general concept of

Suggests a basic, overarching idea rather than a detailed definition.

a wide interpretation of

Emphasizes the range of possible interpretations, differing from a set definition.

an inclusive view of

Highlights inclusivity and encompassing various aspects, moving beyond strict boundaries.

an expansive notion of

Emphasizes the vastness and open-ended nature of an idea, contrasting with a fixed definition.

a comprehensive understanding of

Focuses on thoroughness and completeness in understanding, shifting from definition to comprehension.

a sweeping concept of

Implies a comprehensive and all-encompassing idea, differing from a specific definition.

a far-reaching understanding of

Focuses on the extensive implications and applications of a concept, differing from a simple definition.

a generous scope of

Highlights the extensive reach and coverage, focusing on breadth rather than precision.

FAQs

How can I use "a broad definition of" in a sentence?

You can use "a broad definition of" to introduce a concept or term that has multiple interpretations or variations. For example, "The study employs "a broad definition of" 'family' to include all individuals living in the same household".

What are some alternatives to using "a broad definition of"?

Alternatives include using phrases like "a general concept of", "a wide interpretation of", or "an inclusive view of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a broad definition of"?

It is appropriate to use "a broad definition of" when you want to encompass a wide range of possibilities or interpretations, especially when the standard definition might be too restrictive. For example, when defining 'success', you might use "a broad definition of" success that includes personal fulfillment, community contribution, and financial stability.

What's the difference between "a broad definition of" and "a narrow definition of"?

"A broad definition of" includes a wide range of possibilities or interpretations, while "a narrow definition of" is more specific and restrictive. For example, "a broad definition of" 'art' might include any form of creative expression, while a narrow definition might only include traditional forms like painting and sculpture.