at its broadest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at its broadest" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a concept or idea in its most general or inclusive form. Example: "At its broadest, the definition of art encompasses various forms of expression, including visual, auditory, and performance arts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

At its broadest, it is any financial centre that takes in a large chunk of foreign funds—in other words, almost every financial capital in the world.

The Economist

Similarly, the mean fluorescence intensity (integrated density divided by area) was plotted as well as the radius of the G1 nuclei, measured drawing a line through the nucleus at its broadest area using ImageJ, dividing it by two and plotting it against the age of the cell.

eLife

At its broadest, we can see it as any activity where citizens are actively involved in producing knowledge.

The Guardian

It could have repercussions for public employee unions nationwide because, at its broadest, the question is whether mandatory union dues violate free speech rights.

Huffington Post

At its broadest, you explore job titles and sectors.

The Guardian

But the East China Sea is just 360 miles at its broadest.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

It's used in both YuMe's own ad network at its broader ad management offering.

TechCrunch

At its broad top stand the Alps, which are among the world's most rugged mountains.

Encyclopedia Britannica

THE State University of New York at Farmingdale on Route 110 here has been given both a new grand entrance and a new mission with the recent opening of the first building at its Broad Hollow Bioscience Park.

The New York Times

Dr. Hamburg complimented the F.D.A.'s work force and marveled at its broad responsibilities, a nod to the delicate task of turning around an agency filled with proud veterans.

The New York Times

It may be that the new technology will, at least at first, have its broadest effect through its simplest applications.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at its broadest" to introduce a general overview or the most inclusive understanding of a term or concept before narrowing down to specifics.

Common error

Avoid using "at its broadest" when you actually intend to convey uncertainty or vagueness. The phrase should indicate inclusivity, not a lack of clarity. If your meaning is imprecise, consider alternative phrases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at its broadest" functions as a prepositional phrase used to introduce a wide or general interpretation of a concept. Ludwig examples confirm its usage in offering the most inclusive perspective before delving into specifics.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at its broadest" serves to introduce the most inclusive or general understanding of a term or concept. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedic contexts. While adaptable to different types of texts, it is most effective when establishing a foundational understanding before moving into more detailed explanations. Consider similar phrases like "in its widest sense" or "in its most inclusive interpretation" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in its widest sense

Focuses on the scope of understanding rather than the physical dimension.

in its most inclusive interpretation

Emphasizes the act of interpreting a concept in a comprehensive manner.

in its most general form

Highlights the lack of specificity or detail.

in its most expansive definition

Stresses the wide-ranging nature of a definition.

to put it most generally

Highlights the act of speaking or writing in a general way.

in the most comprehensive terms

Emphasizes the completeness of the description.

in the largest possible extent

Focuses on the degree or scope that is applicable.

taken in its entirety

Shifts the focus to viewing something as a whole.

in simple terms

Highlights that the explanation is easy to grasp.

basically speaking

Focuses on presenting fundamental elements.

FAQs

How can I use "at its broadest" in a sentence?

Use "at its broadest" to introduce the most general or all-encompassing definition of something. For example, "At its broadest, democracy means rule by the people".

What are some alternatives to "at its broadest"?

Consider using phrases like "in its widest sense", "in its most inclusive interpretation", or "in its most general form" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "at its broadest" in formal writing?

Yes, "at its broadest" is suitable for formal writing when you need to define a term or concept in its most general or comprehensive sense.

What's the difference between "at its broadest" and "in general"?

"At its broadest" specifically refers to the most inclusive interpretation of a concept, while "in general" refers to a typical or common situation but doesn't define something.