broad overview

USAGE SUMMARY

"broad overview" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to a general comprehension of a subject, such as an outline of a plan or an overview of a topic. For example: I gave the team a broad overview of the project and its timeline.

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Below, a broad overview of the unit.

The New York Times

So that's the broad overview.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

This workshop will provide a broad overview of network analysis.

Yale University

Subject provides a broad overview of both theory and practice.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Presents a broad overview of both theory and practice.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Blockchain Revolution aims to provide a broad overview of changes the technology could bring about.

The Guardian - Books

I worked on a broad overview of the trend for a story that ran in April.

The Washington Post

On the one hand, they need a broad overview, detachment, and a long-run perspective.

Harvard Business Review

In this paper, a broad overview is given of verification procedures for computational simulation.

Journal of Computational Physics

He used the pieces to create a broad overview of Western choral styles.

The New York Times - Arts

"This film won't try to give a broad overview of Davis' life and give short shrift to this man's story.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To avoid redundancy, ensure that subsequent sections elaborate on the points mentioned in the "broad overview", providing specific examples and data.

Common error

Avoid using "broad overview" when you intend to present a detailed analysis. A "broad overview" is meant to be a general survey, not an exhaustive exploration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broad overview" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes a general, rather than detailed, examination of a topic. Ludwig provides examples from various contexts where "broad overview" is used to introduce or summarize a subject.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

34%

News & Media

31%

Science

28%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "broad overview" is a frequently used and grammatically sound noun phrase suitable for various formal and informal contexts. According to Ludwig, it commonly appears in academic, news, and scientific sources, indicating its versatility and widespread acceptance. When using "broad overview", ensure it accurately reflects your intention to provide a general, rather than detailed, explanation. Alternatives such as "general outline" or "comprehensive summary" can be employed to add variety to your writing. Always make sure that the rest of the document isn't contradicting what you say in the "broad overview" section. Because of its high frequency and neutral tone, "broad overview" is a reliable choice for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

general outline

Focuses on the skeletal structure of the information.

general survey

Focuses on the superficiality of the survey, instead of the profundity of it.

comprehensive summary

Emphasizes the thoroughness of the summarization.

high-level view

This alternative focuses on the depth of the level from the point of view.

wide-ranging survey

Highlights the extensive scope of the examination.

sweeping analysis

Suggests a more critical and interpretive approach.

panoramic view

Focuses on the angle from where you see the information.

extensive synopsis

Implies a detailed and descriptive account.

overall perspective

Shifts the focus to a viewpoint or angle.

thumbnail sketch

Implies a quick, informal, and incomplete summary of something.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "broad overview" in a sentence?

Use "broad overview" to introduce a summary or general introduction to a topic. For example, "This presentation will give you a "broad overview" of our marketing strategy." Then, elaborate on specific points in subsequent sections.

What are some alternatives to "broad overview" that I can use in my writing?

You can use alternatives such as "general outline", "comprehensive summary", or "wide-ranging survey" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "broad overview" in formal writing?

Yes, "broad overview" is suitable for formal writing. It is a neutral and clear phrase that is widely understood and accepted in academic, business, and professional contexts.

What's the difference between "broad overview" and "in-depth analysis"?

A "broad overview" provides a general understanding of a topic, while an "in-depth analysis" involves a thorough and detailed examination. Use "broad overview" for introductions and summaries, and "in-depth analysis" when you need to explore a topic in detail.