a broad reading

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a broad reading" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing interpretations or analyses that encompass a wide range of meanings or perspectives. Example: "In literary criticism, a broad reading of the text can reveal multiple layers of meaning that may not be immediately apparent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

At the same time, the constitution's taxation clause is given a broad reading.

The Guardian - Opinion

But "the dissenters almost necessarily end up endorsing a broad reading of a ruling they don't like.

The New York Times

Justice Clarence Thomas argued that such a broad reading would confer a federal police power over the entire nation.

The New York Times

He concludes that a broad reading was intended and that the agreement was meant to cover a hostile transaction.

The New York Times

Nancy Kaplen of the attorney general's office argued that the term should be given a broad reading.

The New York Times

The Bush administration contends that a broad reading will impede its ability to go after terrorism suspects outside the country.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Eco's career has been defined by a desire to share the rarefied concerns of academia with a broader reading public.

The New Yorker

But Chief Justice Roberts said precedent, the structure of the law and "underlying constitutional concerns" required "a broader reading of the bailout provision".

The New York Times

Those final four words also match up to a broader reading of the film: its portrait of lives spent working for the weekend and the dispiriting emotions that entails.

The Guardian - Film

These stories could be so beneficial to students, while at the same time potentially opening them up to a broader reading base and helping them discover something in themselves that they didn't know about before.

The Guardian - Books

The paper demonstrates through an analysis of these evolving identities and their effects, how organizations have maintained a 'right to speak' within the sustainable development debate, despite the fundamental challenges and hegemonic threat that a broader reading of sustainable development might imply.

Accounting, Organizations and Society

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a broad reading", ensure that the context clearly supports the expansive interpretation you are presenting. Provide sufficient evidence or reasoning to justify the wide scope of your analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "a broad reading" to justify interpretations that are not well-supported by evidence or that stretch the meaning of the source material beyond reasonable limits. Ensure your interpretation remains grounded in the available facts and avoids speculative leaps.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a broad reading" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes the act of interpreting something, such as a text or law, in a comprehensive and inclusive manner. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

12%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a broad reading" is a noun phrase used to describe an expansive interpretation. It's grammatically correct and commonly used, especially in News & Media, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. When using "a broad reading", ensure the context supports the interpretation with solid evidence. Related phrases include "a wide interpretation" and "a comprehensive understanding". While versatile, avoid overstating the breadth without proper justification. This phrase is a valuable tool for nuanced communication, especially when discussing complex topics. It is important to ensure you have enough evidence to support your arguments when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a wide interpretation

Emphasizes the extent of the interpretation.

a comprehensive understanding

Highlights a complete and thorough grasp of the subject.

a generous interpretation

Suggests a lenient or expansive interpretation.

a liberal interpretation

Indicates a flexible and open-minded approach to understanding.

an expansive reading

Focuses on the wide scope of the interpretation.

an inclusive interpretation

Highlights that the interpretation takes many factors into account.

a holistic understanding

Implies considering all aspects of the subject in the interpretation.

a sweeping interpretation

Focuses on the extensive and all-encompassing nature of the interpretation.

a far-reaching interpretation

Highlights the extensive implications and consequences of the interpretation.

a general interpretation

Stresses the interpretation's applicability in broad terms, lacking specific details.

FAQs

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

You can use "a broad reading" to describe an interpretation that considers many different aspects or implications of a text, law, or situation. For example, "The court adopted "a broad reading" of the statute to include unforeseen circumstances".

What is an alternative to "a broad reading"?

Alternatives to "a broad reading" include "a wide interpretation", "a comprehensive understanding", or "a liberal interpretation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to have "a broad reading" or a narrow one?

Whether "a broad reading" or a narrow one is preferable depends on the context and purpose. A broad reading is useful for capturing the full scope of something, while a narrow reading is more precise and focused. The choice depends on the specific requirements of the analysis.

What are the implications of using "a broad reading" in legal contexts?

In legal contexts, "a broad reading" of a law can expand its applicability and impact, potentially affecting more individuals or situations. This can lead to both benefits and challenges, such as increased protection or unintended consequences.