a subtle broadening

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a subtle broadening" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a slight or nuanced expansion of a concept, idea, or perspective. Example: "The research indicates a subtle broadening of the definition of success in modern society."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Consistent with sucrose gradient traces monitoring UV absorbance and [C]-uridine incorporation, we observed a subtle broadening of the 30S protein occupancy peak upon treatment with lamotrigine.

eLife

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

As the company tries to broaden its scope, its message is undergoing a subtle but pervasive shift in emphasis, from sports to fitness.

The New Yorker

In one weekend boot camp in New York City, the Asian students broaden their cultural repertoire by chanting, "I do what I want!" Yang's essay is a subtle description of the immigrant experience, 2011.

The New York Times

A subtle signal?

The New York Times - Sports

A subtle or obvious message?

The New Yorker

It is a subtle war.

Independent

This is a subtle concept.

The New Yorker

Iranians are a subtle people.

The Economist

A subtle portent lurks behind.

The New Yorker

A subtle underlying levity prevailed.

The New York Times - Arts

Again, a subtle lesson.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a subtle broadening" when you want to emphasize that an expansion or change is not drastic or easily noticeable. It's suitable for contexts where nuance and precision are important.

Common error

Avoid using "a subtle broadening" when the change or expansion is actually significant or obvious. Choose a more direct and impactful phrase if the broadening is substantial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a subtle broadening" functions as a noun phrase, where "subtle" modifies "broadening". It describes a particular type of expansion or widening, emphasizing its nuanced and delicate nature. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is grammatically correct and describes "a slight or nuanced expansion of a concept, idea, or perspective".

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a subtle broadening" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a minor or nuanced expansion. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and understandable expression. While not extremely common, it appears in diverse contexts like science, news media, and encyclopedias. When using this phrase, ensure the context truly reflects a subtle shift rather than a major change. Alternatives include "a slight expansion" or "a nuanced widening", offering similar but slightly different connotations. The phrase is best suited for formal writing where precision and nuance are valued.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a slight expansion

Emphasizes the small degree of expansion.

a nuanced widening

Highlights the delicate and refined nature of the widening.

a gentle amplification

Suggests a gradual and smooth increase or strengthening.

a delicate augmentation

Focuses on a fine and careful addition or enhancement.

a marginal increase

Stresses the minimal amount of increase.

a minor extension

Points out the limited scope of the extension.

a gradual development

Underscores the slowness and progression of the development.

an imperceptible growth

Highlights that the growth is barely noticeable.

a faint enlargement

Emphasizes the weak or indistinct nature of the enlargement.

a softened intensification

Suggests that a phenomenon becomes more pronounced, but in a less harsh way.

FAQs

How can "a subtle broadening" be used in a sentence?

You can use "a subtle broadening" to describe a minor or nuanced change, such as "The research indicates "a subtle broadening" of the definition of success in modern society".

What are some alternatives to "a subtle broadening"?

Consider using phrases like "a slight expansion", "a nuanced widening", or "a gentle amplification" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a subtle broadening" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "a subtle broadening" is suitable for formal writing, especially when precision and nuance are required. However, ensure that the context genuinely reflects a subtle rather than a significant change.

What is the difference between "a subtle broadening" and "a significant expansion"?

"A subtle broadening" implies a minor, nuanced change that may not be immediately obvious. "A significant expansion", on the other hand, suggests a more substantial and noticeable increase or development.