a broader number

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a broader number" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used when discussing a larger quantity or range, but it is better to use more precise language. Example: "We need to consider a broader number of factors when making our decision."

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

The result, he added, is that the Customs Service is expecting a far heavier amount of compliance from shippers on a broader number of fronts.

The New York Times

The display is also force-sensitive, which means it can tell the difference between a tap and a press, which enables a broader number of controls.

MIT Technology Review

Although TFEB a broader number of gene expression beyond those in the autophagy lysosomal pathway, abrogating autophagy lysosomal function renders BRAFV600E-melanoma less responsive to TFEB activation.

Nature

Announcing that the team was seeking investors was "deemed a more effective way to reach a broader number of interested investors".

The New York Times - Sports

However, VLP-vaccinated mice had antisera that detected a broader number of linear Env peptides, had anti-Env mucosal IgA and IgG, as well as higher titers of serum neutralizing antibodies.

Virology

Mr. Luparello said the agency had beefed up oversight since the financial crisis, and now had "more people doing it and now has a presence in a broader number of firms than we used to".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 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

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for precision, consider whether "a larger number", "a wider range", or another more specific term would better convey your intended meaning. "A broader number" is acceptable, but directness improves clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a broader number" in highly formal or academic contexts where greater precision is expected. Opt for alternatives like "a larger quantity" or "a more comprehensive range" to enhance formality and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a broader number" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun, indicating a quantity or extent that is larger or more inclusive. Ludwig AI suggests that while acceptable, more precise alternatives may exist to enhance clarity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a broader number" is used to indicate a larger quantity or a more extensive range. While grammatically acceptable, Ludwig AI highlights that more precise terms often enhance clarity, particularly in formal contexts. The phrase finds common use in news, science, and academic writing. Alternatives like ""a larger number"" or "a wider range" may be preferable depending on the specific context and desired level of formality. The provided examples and analysis offer guidance for effective and precise usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a larger quantity

Direct synonym replacement, focusing on the amount or extent.

a greater quantity

Replaces "number" with "quantity", emphasizing the amount rather than the count.

an increased amount

Focuses on the increase in quantity rather than a comparison to a standard.

a more significant quantity

Highlights the importance or impact of the increased amount.

a wider scope

Shifts the focus from numerical value to the extent or range.

a greater volume

Suited when dealing with physical quantities or abstract measures.

a more extensive range

Replaces "broader" with "more extensive" and "number" with "range", changing both words to increase formality and emphasis.

a higher figure

Specifically refers to a numerical value, often in statistics or reporting.

a more diverse set

Emphasizes variety and heterogeneity within the set.

an expanded selection

Implies a greater choice or variety of options.

FAQs

What does "a broader number" mean?

The phrase "a broader number" generally indicates a larger quantity or a more extensive range of something. It suggests an increase in the amount or scope being considered.

How can I use "a broader number" in a sentence?

You can use "a broader number" to describe an increase in the quantity or scope, such as, "The study examined "a larger number" of variables to ensure a more comprehensive analysis."

Which is more appropriate: "a broader number" or "a larger number"?

While both are acceptable, ""a larger number"" is often preferred for its directness and clarity. The choice depends on the context, but "a larger number" tends to be more straightforward.

What are some alternatives to "a broader number"?

Alternatives include "a wider range", "a larger quantity", or "a more extensive selection", depending on the specific context and what you are trying to express.