broad span

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "broad span" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a wide range or extent of something, such as time, space, or variety. Example: "The project covers a broad span of topics, from history to modern technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

Take the broad span of policy areas first of all.

The Guardian - Opinion

Even if circumscribed to Europe, the broad span is astonishing.

The New York Times

They may wonder why this book's plot has such a broad span.

The New York Times

It surveys a broad span of time and is characterised throughout by a strong understanding of economics.

The Guardian - Books

Despite that didactic element and the broad span of years represented, the show is not arranged chronologically.

The New York Times

From the broad span of her study, Greer distilled a few essential tips for building and managing effective teams.

Stanford University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Role-play simulations similarly span a broad spectrum.

Harvard University

But the potential applications are broad, spanning pharmaceuticals, energy, and agriculture.

MIT Technology Review

Huttenlocher's own research is broad, spanning algorithms, social media, and computer vision.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Companies like Spotify, with its principle of "loosely coupled and tightly aligned," and Google, with its broad spans of control, have mastered these concepts.

Harvard Business Review

For example, in a relatively flat organizational structure where there are few management layers and managers have broad spans of control, people understand that delegation is the norm.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "broad span", consider whether a more specific term might better convey the intended meaning. For instance, "wide range" might be more appropriate when discussing variety, while "extensive scope" could be better when emphasizing comprehensiveness.

Common error

Avoid using "broad span" excessively in formal or scientific writing where precision is paramount. Opt for more precise alternatives like "specific range" or "defined scope" when detailing data or methodologies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broad span" primarily functions as a modifier, often preceding a noun to describe its extent or scope. It indicates that the noun it modifies covers a wide or extensive range. Ludwig examples confirm its use in describing various domains from policy areas to time periods.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

30%

Academia

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "broad span" is a commonly used phrase that indicates a wide range or extent. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and suitable for diverse contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and academic writing. While versatile, writers should consider whether more specific terms might enhance precision. The phrase enjoys considerable usage across authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. Be mindful of overuse in highly formal contexts where specific alternatives are preferred.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wide range

Focuses on the variety and diversity within the extent, suggesting multiple different elements are included.

extensive scope

Highlights the comprehensiveness and breadth of the area covered.

considerable extent

Emphasizes the magnitude or degree to which something reaches or stretches.

vast scope

Implies an exceptionally large or immense area covered.

wide scope

Similar to "extensive scope", but may suggest a slightly less exhaustive coverage.

substantial range

Highlights the significant amount or degree of variation within a set of items or topics.

comprehensive coverage

Emphasizes that all aspects or elements are included and addressed.

broad spectrum

Highlights the variety of different positions or opinions.

expansive reach

Emphasizes the ability to affect or influence a large number of things or people.

inclusive scope

Highlights the all-encompassing nature, leaving nothing or no one excluded.

FAQs

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

You can use "broad span" to describe a wide range or extent of something. For example, "The curriculum covers a "broad span" of historical events" or "The study examined a "broad span" of age groups".

What are some alternatives to "broad span"?

Some alternatives to "broad span" include "wide range", "extensive scope", "considerable extent", or "vast scope". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "broad span" formal or informal?

"Broad span" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal or scientific writing, more precise terms might be preferred.

What is the difference between "broad span" and "wide range"?

While both phrases indicate variety or extent, "wide range" typically emphasizes the diversity of elements included, whereas "broad span" focuses on the overall extent or scope. For example, you might speak of a "wide range" of opinions but a "broad span" of years.