a broad sweep

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a broad sweep" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a wide-ranging or comprehensive approach to a topic or issue. Example: "The report provides a broad sweep of the current economic landscape, highlighting key trends and challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A broad sweep this is not.

The Economist

He wiped his face with a broad sweep of his hand.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I thought it would be a broad sweep but he started with, 'Act one, scene one.

The Guardian - Film

Citigroup executives played down the inquiries, portraying them as part of a broad sweep of Wall Street firms.

The New York Times

This analysis will not be a broad sweep of each division, but an in-depth look at everything Rolls does.

The Guardian - Business

FISA orders can range from inquiries about specific people to a broad sweep for intelligence, like logs of certain search terms, lawyers who work with the orders said.

The New York Times - Tech

"We have gone for a broad sweep in age, in generations, in geographical terms and in types of architecture," said Mr. Chipperfield.

The New York Times - Arts

"This whole thing," she said, with a broad sweep of her hands, "is a tribute to what the country now thinks of California.

The New Yorker

Among the dozen free museums operated by the city government, the museum offered a broad sweep through the city's past, told through period painters and historical re-creations.

The New York Times - Travel

The Promenade is of a higher elevation, and you can see over a broad sweep of water with multiple, complicated channels, and busy with water traffic.

The New York Times

It demonstrates the panache of Laurie Sansom, who took over as artistic director of NTS last year, and who gives the productions a broad sweep and considerable drive.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a broad sweep" to introduce a summary or overview that covers many aspects of a subject. For instance, when starting a presentation on a complex topic, begin by offering "a broad sweep" to orient your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "a broad sweep" when referring to highly specific or detailed analyses. This phrase is most effective when summarizing or introducing a wide range of information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a broad sweep" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject or object in a sentence. As evidenced by the examples provided by Ludwig, it is used to describe the act of providing a comprehensive overview or summary of a topic.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a broad sweep" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a comprehensive overview or summary. Ludwig AI's analysis of numerous examples from reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian indicates its widespread usage across various domains, particularly in news, science, and business. While the phrase is versatile, it's important to use it appropriately in contexts where a general overview is intended, rather than in situations requiring detailed analysis. Consider using alternatives like "a comprehensive overview" or "a wide-ranging examination" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a comprehensive overview

Emphasizes completeness and thoroughness in covering a topic.

a sweeping analysis

Similar, but emphasizes the analytical nature of the overview.

a wide-ranging examination

Highlights the extensive scope and variety of aspects considered.

a complete picture

Focuses on assembling all the elements for a holistic understanding.

an extensive survey

Suggests a detailed and methodical investigation across a large area or subject.

a holistic approach

Emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of the elements.

a panoramic view

Implies a comprehensive and all-encompassing perspective.

a grand perspective

Indicates a broad, significant viewpoint.

a general outline

Focuses on providing a basic structure without delving into minute details.

a bird's-eye view

Offers a high-level, simplified understanding.

FAQs

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

You can use "a broad sweep" to indicate a comprehensive overview or summary. For example, "The presentation offered "a broad sweep" of the company's achievements over the past year."

What's the difference between "a broad sweep" and "a detailed analysis"?

"A broad sweep" provides a general overview, while "a detailed analysis" delves into specific aspects. Use "a broad sweep" to introduce a topic and a detailed analysis to explore it thoroughly.

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

You can use alternatives like "a comprehensive overview", "a wide-ranging examination", or "an extensive survey depending on the context.

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

It's appropriate to use "a broad sweep" when you want to provide a general understanding of a subject without going into specific details. It's effective in introductions, summaries, or when transitioning between topics.