broad characters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "broad characters" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe characters in literature, film, or other narratives that are well-developed and have distinct, recognizable traits. Example: "The novel is praised for its broad characters, each with their own unique backstory and motivations that drive the plot forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The children seem enchanted by the broad characters, the music and the mythic conflicts in opera, and seem unaware of how unusual their knowledge is.

The New York Times

"You do sketch comedy and you do the big, broad characters and you do a bunch of really crazy things that seem like they take a lot of nerve to do but, for sure, the hardest thing I ever did was to play someone close to who I really am," he admits.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Because when you're writing something, there's always going to be someone who says, "Oh, that character is way too broad," but we're all broad characters.

Los Angeles Times

The concept was intriguing because of the fun that we could have with these broad characters and that's what I feel animation does really well.

Los Angeles Times

And when you sit around your Thanksgiving dinner table, there are nothing but broad characters and people that you kind of can't believe, and this whole family, if you met them, you would not believe.

Los Angeles Times

One son comes out as gay, a development that occupies much of the pilot, but it'll likely be a typical CBS sitcom going forward: full of broad characters and predictable moments but reasonably amusing and decently made.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"He's a broad character, he's a flamboyant character, he's funny.

The New York Times

There are two broad character types that run through the history of Australian cricket: the rebel-larrikins and the brooders.

The Guardian - Sport

Healey is such a broad character, a towering intellectual with deep interests in the arts, and is certainly not one to nurse grudges.

The Guardian

This film looks a bit like teatime telly at some moments, and a bit People's Friend at others; there is some pretty broad character acting going on.

The Guardian - Film

It even manages to get some of the broad character strokes, such as his loneliness both before and after coming out of the closet, his inability to suffer fools and his argumentativeness.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "broad characters" when you want to emphasize that the characters are easily recognizable and somewhat exaggerated, often for comedic or dramatic effect. Consider if this level of exaggeration aligns with your desired tone and message.

Common error

Avoid using "broad characters" when you actually mean well-developed or complex characters. "Broad characters" often imply a lack of nuance, whereas well-developed characters have depth and intricacies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broad characters" functions primarily as a descriptive term. It is used to characterize figures within a narrative or context who possess traits that are amplified or readily identifiable. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is used to describe distinct, recognizable traits. Examples show it used in the context of opera, comedy, and animation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "broad characters" is a descriptive term used to indicate figures with exaggerated or easily recognizable traits within a narrative. Ludwig AI indicates that it’s correct and usable in written English to describe developed and distinct characters. While it is grammatically sound and commonly used, it is important to consider the context and intended meaning, as it may imply a lack of nuance. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media, and its alternatives include "well-developed characters" or "exaggerated characters" depending on the specific nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

well-developed characters

Focuses on the extent to which the characters' personalities and backgrounds are elaborated.

fully realized characters

Emphasizes the completeness and authenticity of the characters' portrayal.

exaggerated characters

Highlights the over-the-top or amplified nature of the characters' traits.

larger-than-life characters

Suggests that the characters are imposing, dramatic, or iconic figures.

caricatured characters

Indicates that the characters are depicted through simplified or distorted representations.

stereotypical characters

Implies the characters are based on common, oversimplified cultural tropes.

over-the-top characters

Stresses the characters' excessive or flamboyant behavior and personality.

one-dimensional characters

Refers to characters that lack depth, complexity, or nuance.

simplistic characters

Describes characters that are simple in terms of complexity and nuance.

shallow characters

Describes characters who lack emotional or intellectual depth.

FAQs

What does "broad characters" mean in literature?

In literature, "broad characters" refers to characters that are exaggerated or easily recognizable, often lacking in significant depth or complexity. They are typically used for comedic or dramatic effect.

How do you write "broad characters" effectively?

To write "broad characters" effectively, emphasize their most prominent traits and behaviors. Ensure their actions align with their established characteristics, and consider the overall tone and purpose of your story when using such characters.

What are some alternatives to "broad characters"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "broad characters" could include "well-developed characters", "exaggerated characters", or "larger-than-life characters".

When is it appropriate to use "broad characters" in a story?

It's appropriate to use "broad characters" in genres or stories that benefit from exaggerated or comedic elements. They can also be effective in allegorical tales where characters represent specific ideas or concepts.