broad observation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "broad observation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a general or overarching comment or insight about a topic or situation. Example: "After conducting the research, my broad observation is that there is a significant correlation between the two variables."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

As a first broad observation in terms of the 1961 2014 averages, it can be seen that Mexico has the lowest mean value in terms of military spending as a share of GDP over the entire period (0.6%).

Latin American Economic Review

This matches the broad observation that surface residues are less conserved in proteins when compared to those that are buried in the structural core (e.g., [ 31]).

BMC Systems Biology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

These are surprisingly accurate, if broad, observations.

Independent

Certain broad observations can be made, however.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Asked to cite a significant foreign policy object lesson from the 1990s, Mrs. Clinton also replied with broad observations.

The New York Times

This is more the pity, as his broad observations about the drug are sensible.

The Economist

When the D.S.M.'s approach was conceived, we had to base categorizations on broad observations and one level of data: behavioral.

The New Yorker

And before outlining specific changes that I have ordered, let me make a few broad observations that have emerged from this process.

The Guardian

Still, a few broad observations may be in order: Apart from Ms. Lash's handsomely brooding "Furthermore," most of the music played on Saturday suggested that 20th-century modernism — say, from Schoenberg to Charles Wuorinen — never happened.

The New York Times - Arts

A tiny sampling of cultured marine phage genomes and community DNA metagenomic sequencing has led to the following broad observations.

Plosone

But we discourage investigators from using these broad observations in selecting a methodology, and recommend instead Figure  1.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "broad observation", ensure that the context provides sufficient detail to support the general statement. Avoid making overly vague claims without evidence.

Common error

Avoid using "broad observation" as a substitute for detailed analysis. While it's useful for introducing a general point, always follow up with specific supporting evidence and examples.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broad observation" functions as a noun phrase, where "broad" modifies the noun "observation". It typically serves as a subject or object in a sentence, introducing a general or overarching insight. Ludwig shows examples where it precedes a more detailed explanation.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "broad observation" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to introduce a general or overarching insight. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correct and suitable for various contexts, primarily Science and News & Media. While the phrase is relatively uncommon, it serves as a useful starting point for discussions and analyses. When using "broad observation", follow up with specific details and evidence to support your claim and avoid overgeneralization. Consider alternatives like "general observation" or "wide-ranging observation" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

general observation

Replaces "broad" with "general", indicating a less specific or detailed observation.

wide-ranging observation

Substitutes "broad" with "wide-ranging", suggesting an observation that covers a large scope.

overarching observation

Replaces "broad" with "overarching", emphasizing the comprehensive nature of the observation.

sweeping generalization

Changes "observation" to "generalization", suggesting a broad statement that may not be entirely accurate.

general assessment

Replaces "observation" with "assessment", implying a more evaluative and less passive perspective.

holistic perspective

Shifts the focus to the overall viewpoint rather than a specific observation.

comprehensive overview

Replaces "observation" with "overview", suggesting a summary of the main points.

large-scale insight

Emphasizes the significance and scope of the insight gained.

macro-level finding

Uses "macro-level" to highlight the large-scale nature of the finding.

high-level conclusion

Indicates a conclusion drawn from a broad or strategic viewpoint.

FAQs

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

You can use "broad observation" to introduce a general insight or overview. For example, "A "broad observation" is that technology is rapidly changing the way we live."

What can I say instead of "broad observation"?

Alternatives to "broad observation" include "general observation", "overarching observation", or "wide-ranging observation", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "broad observation" or "detailed analysis"?

It depends on your purpose. A "broad observation" introduces a general point, while a "detailed analysis" explores specifics. Use both to provide a well-rounded perspective.

What's the difference between "broad observation" and "sweeping generalization"?

A "broad observation" is a general insight supported by some evidence, while a "sweeping generalization" is a broad statement made without sufficient evidence or nuance and may not be accurate.