a broad sense

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a broad sense" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a general or wide-ranging understanding of a concept or idea. Example: "In a broad sense, the term 'sustainability' encompasses environmental, social, and economic dimensions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In a broad sense, I mean.

The Guardian - Music

In a broad sense, FAST was nothing new.

The New Yorker

In a broad sense, Christian culture produced it.

The New Yorker

This article uses the term "facilities" in a broad sense.

Columbia University

Even so, in a broad sense, not much has changed.

The Guardian

And that, in a broad sense, was news.

The New Yorker

This is all, in a broad sense, typical.

The New Yorker

Tell us, what is it, what does being libertarian, in a broad sense, mean to you? JOHNSON: Oh, well, in a broad sense it is less government.

The Washington Post

In a broad sense, landscape ecology represents both a field of study and an ecological paradigm.

Reference Module in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences

As for technology, in the present chapter, this notion will be used in a broad sense.

Philosophy of Technology and Engineering Sciences

In a broad sense, sensitivity analysis assesses the effect of each input on model outputs.

Journal of Systems and Software

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a broad sense" to introduce a general interpretation before providing specific details or nuances. This sets the stage for a more detailed explanation.

Common error

Avoid using "a broad sense" as a substitute for concrete details. Always follow up with specific examples or clarifications to support the general statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a broad sense" functions as an adverbial modifier, typically used to qualify a statement or definition, indicating that it is being presented in a general or non-specific manner. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples where it introduces a generalized perspective.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a broad sense" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a general understanding of a concept or topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While suitable for setting the stage for more detailed explanations, it's crucial to follow up with specific examples to avoid vagueness. Remember to use it when you want to convey a general meaning before diving into the specifics. Using alternatives like "generally speaking" or "in general" can also add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a general way

Focuses on the generality of the statement rather than the scope.

generally speaking

Highlights that the statement is a generalization, not necessarily precise.

in a wide context

Emphasizes the extensive scope or range being considered.

from a global perspective

Suggests looking at something from a comprehensive, worldwide point of view.

in a comprehensive manner

Highlights the completeness and thoroughness of the understanding.

in the overall picture

Suggests viewing something as part of a larger, more encompassing context.

for the most part

Indicates that something is true in most instances, but not necessarily all.

on a large scale

Emphasizes the magnitude or extent to which something applies.

to a great extent

Indicates the significant degree to which something is true or applicable.

in its broadest terms

Focuses on simplifying an idea to its most basic elements.

FAQs

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

You can use "a broad sense" to introduce a general understanding of a topic before diving into specifics. For example, "In "a broad sense", sustainability involves balancing environmental, social, and economic factors."

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

Alternatives include "generally speaking", "in general", or "in a general way", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "a broad sense" or "a narrow sense"?

The choice depends on whether you're introducing a general overview or a specific interpretation. Use ""a broad sense"" for general contexts and "a narrow sense" when focusing on particular details or limitations.

What does it mean to interpret something "in a broad sense"?

Interpreting something "in "a broad sense"" means understanding it in its most general or inclusive meaning, without focusing on specific details or exceptions.