broad spectrum

USAGE SUMMARY

"broad spectrum" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a wide range of things or ideas. For example, "This study examines a broad spectrum of economic indicators."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

What does "broad spectrum" mean?

The New York Times - Health

Both feature broad spectrum protection.

The New York Times

"There's a broad spectrum of interest".

The New York Times

Broad spectrum of reference information.

Princeton University

"He sees a broad spectrum of things".

The New York Times

"But there's a broad spectrum of support".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

The programs have a broad-spectrum appeal.

The New York Times

Treatment is with broad-spectrum antibiotics.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Hops makes a powerful broad-spectrum antibiotic.

The New Yorker

Metronidazole has a broad-spectrum antibacterial activity.

Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry

All patients received broad-spectrum prophylactic antibiotics.

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "broad spectrum", ensure the context clearly defines what range or area is being covered to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "broad spectrum of antibiotic resistance" or "broad spectrum of investment opportunities".

Common error

Avoid using "broad spectrum" when a specific, narrow focus is intended. This phrase implies wide coverage, so ensure it accurately reflects the intended meaning in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broad spectrum" primarily functions as a modifier, typically an adjective, describing a noun. This usage indicates that the noun has a wide range of characteristics, applications, or effectiveness. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is commonly used and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

32%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "broad spectrum" is a versatile phrase used to indicate a wide range or comprehensive coverage, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its grammatical function is primarily as a modifier, conveying inclusivity across various contexts, from science and academia to news and general media. While it maintains a neutral formality, ensuring its appropriateness for diverse audiences, it's crucial to specify the scope to prevent ambiguity. Alternatives such as "wide range" or "comprehensive scope" can be considered based on specific nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wide range

Focuses on the extent of variety rather than the specific characteristic of covering a full scope.

extensive array

Emphasizes the diverse collection or arrangement of items or elements.

comprehensive scope

Highlights the completeness and thoroughness of the coverage.

full gamut

Implies a complete and all-inclusive range, often used in contexts of emotions or experiences.

wide scope

Similar to "wide range", but with a focus on the area or extent covered.

comprehensive range

Combines the thoroughness of "comprehensive" with the variety of "range".

diverse spectrum

Highlights the variety and heterogeneity within the scope.

varied assortment

Focuses on the mixture of different things.

complete spectrum

Implies that all parts are included

encompassing scope

Emphasizes the idea of including many different things.

FAQs

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

You can use "broad spectrum" to describe something that covers a wide range of possibilities, characteristics, or applications. For example, "This sunscreen offers "broad spectrum protection" from UVA and UVB rays."

What's the difference between "broad spectrum" and "wide range"?

"Broad spectrum" often implies a complete or comprehensive coverage within a particular field or area, whereas "wide range" simply suggests a large variety or extent. For example, a "wide range" of products versus a "broad spectrum" of solutions.

Which is correct, "broad spectrum" or "wide spectra"?

"Broad spectrum" is the correct and commonly used phrase. "Wide spectra" is less common and may not be appropriate depending on the context. Generally, spectrum is treated as a non-count noun in this context.

What can I say instead of "broad spectrum"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "wide range", "comprehensive scope", or "extensive array".