a broad number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a broad number" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It can be used when referring to a wide range or variety of items, but it is better to use more standard expressions. Example: "The survey received a broad number of responses from participants across different demographics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"There's a broad number of tests that need to be deployed," Mr. Bishop said.

The New York Times

He said the company was "looking at a broad number of requests".

The New York Times

"The revenues today can't support such a broad number of releases," said Michael Wolff, a media specialist at McKinsey & Company.

The New York Times

Combustible dust explosions are among the most serious criticalities affecting a broad number of industries around the world.

Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries

"We see that Google has engaged in misconduct in a broad number of member states since 2008 and continues to do so," Vestager said.

The Guardian - Tech

He expanded the company from a multi-family office to an internationally-recognized investment firm that serves a broad number of families and institutions.

The New York Times

A. There are a broad number of cases that are still pending that will perhaps drag on, though not as high-profile.

The New York Times

"A broad number of financial institutions remain concerned with year-end refunding, but the quantity demanded does not suggest an impending systemic crash," he wrote.

The New York Times

In a statement issued this evening, Microsoft said: "Microsoft's appeal will raise a broad number of legal, factual and procedural issues.

The New York Times

"When an attacker can infiltrate an advertising network, it enables them to reach a broad number of websites within a chosen category.

The Guardian - Tech

We believe that the information learned from these studies will be clinically relevant to a broad number of pulmonary diseases including bronchopulmonary dysplasia, asthma, ARDS, and emphysema.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a broad number", consider whether "a wide range" or "a large number" might be more appropriate depending on whether you want to emphasize diversity or quantity.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "a broad number" can sometimes sound less natural in formal writing. Opt for more concise alternatives like "many" or "several" where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a broad number" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a large quantity or extent. It highlights the numerous nature of the items being referred to. Ludwig shows that it is commonly used across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

34%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a broad number" is a grammatically sound way to indicate a significant quantity or extent. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is frequently used across various contexts, including news, science, and academia. While perfectly acceptable, considering alternatives such as "a wide range" or "a large number" can sometimes enhance clarity or stylistic impact. When writing, assess whether emphasizing the quantity or the diversity is more relevant to your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a wide range

Focuses on the diversity of items rather than the quantity.

a large quantity

Emphasizes the amount or volume present.

a considerable amount

Highlights the significance or importance of the quantity.

a significant quantity

Stresses the notable or impactful nature of the amount.

a substantial quantity

Implies a solid or noteworthy amount.

a diverse array

Emphasizes the varied nature of the items considered.

an extensive selection

Highlights the comprehensive nature of the available choices.

a multitude

A more literary term indicating a very large number.

a plethora

Indicates an overabundance or excessive quantity.

numerous instances

Highlights repeated occurrences or examples.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "a broad number"?

You can use alternatives like "a wide range", "a large number", or "numerous" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "a broad number of"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct. However, as Ludwig AI suggests, consider whether a more common or precise alternative might be more effective in your writing.

How does "a broad number" differ from "a wide range"?

"A broad number" emphasizes quantity, while "a wide range" highlights diversity or variety. Choose the phrase that best reflects the intended meaning.

When is it best to use "a broad number"?

Use "a broad number" when you want to emphasize a significant quantity or amount that encompasses a variety of different items or categories.