broad description

USAGE SUMMARY

"broad description" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something in general terms that is wide-ranging in scope. For example, "This painting conveys a broad description of the changing seasons."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

On this score, the governor of the Bank of England offered only a broad description.

The Guardian - Business

"'Sitcom' for me is a very broad description these days," she says.

Independent

But he said, "Much work remains for us to gain a broad description of Jupiter's fluid behavior".

The New York Times - Science

But he would not elaborate, and he gave only a broad description of what the inquiry would cover.

The New York Times

Since the narco-terrorism provision was passed, the D.E.A. has pursued dozens of cases that fit the broad description of crimes under the statute.

The New Yorker

These factors are usually grouped under the broad description of "diffusion limitation," and any can cause incomplete transfer of oxygen with a resultant reduction in blood oxygen content.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

It demands only such things as clarity, coherence, large type and broad descriptions of proposed changes.

The New York Times

It also asserts that so-called business methods alone — broad descriptions of ideas, without technical specifics — should not be patentable.

The New York Times - Tech

He cites a particular claim in the invention as one of the broad descriptions he thinks will "have a significant impact on the C.R.M. industry".

The New York Times

Mr. Maharaj, who is the sole source of official information about Mr. Mandela's health, says he can only give broad descriptions of the former president's condition.

The New York Times

There are provisions in many carriage contracts, sometimes called covenants, that include broad descriptions of the channels and assurances that the channels will live up to their names.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "broad description" when you intend to offer a general overview without focusing on intricate details.

Common error

Avoid using "broad description" when technical accuracy is paramount. Instead, opt for terms like "detailed analysis" or "precise specification" to convey thoroughness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broad description" functions as a noun phrase acting as a direct object or a subject complement. It typically follows a verb like 'give', 'offer', or 'provide', indicating that something is being described in general terms. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "broad description" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase used to signify a general overview of a subject, ideal when detailed specifics are not the primary focus. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability. Predominantly featured in scientific and news media contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse forms of communication. Alternatives such as "general overview" or "rough outline" can be used to add nuance. When opting for "broad description", ensure it aligns with your intent to convey a general understanding, rather than a detailed analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overall picture

Focuses on the general impression or understanding.

general overview

Emphasizes a high-level summary without delving into specifics.

general depiction

Refers to a basic and non-detailed representation.

wide-ranging account

Highlights the extensive scope and coverage of the explanation.

rough outline

Suggests a preliminary and somewhat imprecise account.

comprehensive summary

Indicates a thorough and complete overview of the subject.

basic rundown

Implies a simple and straightforward explanation.

sweeping statement

Implies a broad generalization that may not be entirely accurate.

cursory explanation

Suggests a brief and superficial account.

synoptic view

Highlights a summary presenting or taking the same point of view.

FAQs

How can I use "broad description" in a sentence?

You can use "broad description" to introduce a general overview of a topic. For example, "The lecture provided a broad description of the economic theory".

What's a good substitute for "broad description"?

Alternatives include "general overview", "rough outline", or "wide-ranging account", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "broad description" formal or informal?

The phrase "broad description" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly technical or academic writing, a more precise term might be preferred.

What is the difference between "broad description" and "detailed analysis"?

"Broad description" offers a general overview, while "detailed analysis" delves into specifics and intricacies. Use "detailed analysis" when precision and thoroughness are required.