broad back

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "broad back" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone with a wide or strong back, often implying physical strength or robustness. Example: "The athlete's broad back was a testament to his years of rigorous training and dedication to the sport."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

James is a broad back destined to wear regimentals.

Independent

My broad back is an issue when shopping for clothing.

The New Yorker

She sat at the table, staring at her sister's broad back.

The New Yorker

The broad back of old Ratkovich, the rich man of the shtetl.

The New Yorker

Another strains to scratch her broad back, in that middle place that's impossible to reach.

The New York Times - Arts

The ex-diver is short and has a very broad back.

The New Yorker

Perched at a picnic bench, we gazed up at the broad back of Haleakala.

The New York Times - Travel

Everybody understands the medical history of the big boy with No. 88 across his broad back.

The New York Times - Sports

I have a broad back … It is really too much to respond".

The Guardian - Sport

Now, her tank top shows a broad back and a muscled physique.

The New York Times - Sports

("The cool wind whistles/ Ruffling the gray bristly hairs/ On Borgnine's broad back").

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person, use "broad back" to suggest physical strength and resilience, especially in contexts related to sports, manual labor or historical descriptions.

Common error

Avoid using "broad back" in contexts where a general description of size is needed, unless you specifically want to emphasize strength or robustness. In those cases, use "wide back" or "large back" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broad back" primarily functions as a descriptive adjective-noun combination. It is used to describe a physical attribute, often implying strength or robustness. Ludwig's examples show its use in describing people, animals and even landscapes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "broad back" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe someone with a wide or strong back, often implying physical strength. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and frequent use in various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the desired implication of strength or robustness, and consider "wide back" or "strong back" as alternatives depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wide back

Focuses more on the width aspect rather than the strength or capacity implied by "broad".

strong back

Emphasizes the strength and resilience of the back, suitable for contexts involving physical labor.

muscular back

Highlights the muscular development of the back, often used in fitness or anatomical contexts.

sturdy back

Suggests a back that is robust and capable of withstanding stress or weight.

imposing back

Conveys a sense of grandeur or impressiveness in the size or stature of the back.

back of a giant

Uses hyperbole to emphasize the size and strength of the back.

back built like a brick wall

Uses a simile to describe a back that is solid, strong and unyielding.

shoulders of an ox

Similar to the original phrase, but focuses on the shoulders rather than the back and emphasizes strength.

carry the weight of the world

A metaphorical phrase that refers to someone who is burdened with many responsibilities.

shoulder responsibility

Refers to the act of accepting responsibility for something.

FAQs

How can I describe someone with a "broad back"?

You can describe someone with a "broad back" as strong, sturdy, or physically imposing, depending on the specific context and the image you want to create.

What does it mean when someone is described as having a "broad back"?

Describing someone as having a "broad back" typically implies that they are physically strong and capable of handling heavy loads or responsibilities.

Are there other words that are similar to "broad back"?

Yes, similar terms include "wide back", "strong back", or "muscular back". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the term "broad back" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "broad back" when you want to emphasize physical strength, resilience, or the capacity to bear weight or responsibility, rather than just describing size. For a general descriptor, prefer "wide back".