apply a broad brush

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apply a broad brush" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing generalizations or sweeping statements that lack nuance. For example: "In his analysis, he tended to apply a broad brush, overlooking important details." Alternative expressions include "paint with a broad stroke" and "generalize widely."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"As there may be instances where the offending involved conduct that is still unlawful today, we can't apply a broad brush approach to wiping convictions.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Applying effects with a broad brush, he uses words as a vehicle for emotion rather than, like Mr. Simo neau, a container of it, and he thus misses the moments of specificity that could turn a good performance into a great one.

The New York Times - Arts

"There's clearly a broad brush being applied here," said Russell Jones, a retail consultant with Cap Gemini Ernst & Young in Richmond, Va.

The New York Times

Clearly, a broad brush is being applied to religion by these men and their audiences when they paint a coded picture of "family's" centrality to their world views.

Huffington Post

We recognize that the weighting we have applied as a broad-brush correction for the over-representation of astronomy articles is only one of many that might be applied.

Nature

But defeat tars with a broad brush.

The Economist

"It's painting with a broad brush.

The Guardian

"They are going to be painted with a broad brush.

The New York Times

A word of warning: Hughes paints with a broad brush.

The Guardian - Books

ACCURACY -- The commercial paints with a broad brush.

The New York Times

A broad brush is harmful, if not useless.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "apply a broad brush" when you want to convey that something is being treated in a general or simplified manner, potentially overlooking nuances or specific details. Be mindful of the potential negative connotation, as it can imply a lack of thoroughness.

Common error

Avoid using "apply a broad brush" if it leads to inaccurate or unfair representations. Always ensure that the generalization is supported by sufficient evidence and doesn't unfairly stereotype or misrepresent individual cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apply a broad brush" functions as a verb phrase that describes a method of generalization. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in contexts where a general approach is taken, potentially overlooking specific details. The expression is typically used to critique a lack of nuance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "apply a broad brush" is a common idiom used to describe a generalized approach that may overlook specific details. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's often used in contexts where oversimplification is being critiqued. While grammatically correct and frequently found in news and media sources, it's important to use this phrase judiciously, ensuring that generalizations are supported by evidence and not used to unfairly stereotype. Alternatives like "generalize" or "oversimplify" can offer similar meanings with slightly different connotations. Always consider the specific context to ensure the most appropriate and accurate expression is used.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

paint with a broad stroke

Uses a different metaphor with a similar visual imagery.

make sweeping generalizations

Emphasizes the wide scope of the generalizations being made.

oversimplify

Highlights the negative aspect of simplifying complex issues.

use a one-size-fits-all approach

Emphasizes the lack of individual consideration in the approach.

generalize

Focuses on the act of making a general statement without specifying the method.

draw general conclusions

Focuses on the act of reaching broad conclusions from specific information.

lump together

Suggests grouping items without considering their individual differences.

take a high-level view

Shifts the focus to considering the overall perspective rather than details.

use a rule of thumb

Implies applying a practical but potentially inaccurate guideline.

broaden the scope

Suggests widening the area of consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "apply a broad brush" in a sentence?

You can use "apply a broad brush" to describe situations where someone is making generalizations or not paying attention to specific details. For example: "The report "applied a broad brush" to the issue, failing to address the specific concerns of each department."

What does it mean to "apply a broad brush" to something?

To "apply a broad brush" means to treat something in a general way, without paying attention to specific details or nuances. It often implies a lack of thoroughness or consideration for individual differences.

Is it always negative to "apply a broad brush"?

While "apply a broad brush" often has a negative connotation, implying oversimplification, it can be neutral or even necessary in certain contexts. For example, when outlining a general strategy or providing a summary, "applying a broad brush" can be efficient, as long as the specific details are addressed later.

What are some alternatives to "apply a broad brush"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "generalize", "oversimplify", or "paint with a broad stroke". These alternatives convey similar meanings with slight differences in emphasis.