broad strokes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "broad strokes" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a general or overarching approach to a topic, without going into detailed specifics. Example: "In discussing the project, let's focus on the broad strokes before we dive into the finer details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Why the broad strokes?

The New York Times - Books

"Big, big brushes, broad strokes".

The Guardian - Books

I write in broad strokes.

The Guardian

Broad strokes aren't Arnold's bag.

The Guardian - Film

Accordingly, everything is drawn in broad strokes.

The New York Times - Books

In broad strokes, Ornstein is correct.

The Washington Post

In broad strokes, this is true.

The Washington Post

But the broad strokes really work.

The Guardian

In broad strokes, the parallels are alarming.

The New York Times

In broad strokes, the verdict is known.

The New York Times

The poll questions vary, but are similar in broad strokes.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting complex information, start with the "broad strokes" to provide context before diving into specifics. This helps your audience grasp the overall concept first.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on "broad strokes" when detailed understanding is crucial. Ensure you provide sufficient specifics to support your general statements and avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broad strokes" functions as a noun phrase, often used adverbially to modify verbs of describing or explaining. It indicates a manner of presentation that emphasizes generalities rather than specific details. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in conveying overarching concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

11%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "broad strokes" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes a general or simplified approach to presenting information. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and frequently found in news and media, as well as in formal business contexts. When using "broad strokes", ensure you balance generalities with sufficient detail to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "general overview" or "main points" can be used depending on the context. Remember to provide detail and not oversimplify for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

big picture

This alternative focuses on the overall perspective, avoiding granular details.

main points

This alternative highlights the most important aspects, omitting minor details.

key aspects

This alternative stresses the significant elements of a subject.

general overview

This alternative emphasizes a comprehensive but not detailed view.

essential elements

This alternative highlights the fundamental parts.

overall outline

This alternative suggests a basic framework without specific elements.

general terms

This alternative describes something spoken about in a high level manner.

basic framework

This alternative underlines the simple structure without specific elements.

strategic overview

This alternative puts in evidence the high level strategic nature of the overview.

sweeping generalizations

This alternative (be mindful of negative connotations) focuses on widespread statements that may lack nuance.

FAQs

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

You can use "broad strokes" to describe a general approach or overview, as in, "Let's discuss the project in "broad strokes" before getting into the details."

What is an alternative to saying "broad strokes"?

Alternatives include "general overview", "main points", or "key aspects" depending on the specific context.

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

Yes, "broad strokes" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when providing an overview or summary. However, ensure you follow up with detailed information as needed.

What does it mean to "paint in broad strokes"?

To "paint in broad strokes" means to describe something in a general or simplified way, without including fine details. For example, "The historian painted in "broad strokes", focusing on the major events of the era."