broad thing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "broad thing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a general or wide-ranging concept or object without specifying details. Example: "The discussion covered a broad thing, encompassing various aspects of the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

We may have one very broad thing in common with Dustin Hoffman's fictional character, but in reality we are much more complex, much more real, and actually human.

Independent

The simplest definition I could muster was "material contributed to a service by the public", which is about as broad as a broad thing on Broadway but hey.

The Guardian

I didn't give her the attention and love I should have done, and I still feel that there's something outstanding between us.' Debt, you see, is a very broad thing, and the scale of the debt doesn't matter.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's really cool - even people from Oklahoma!" Despite their disbelief, the campaign has flagged up a problem that "definitely strikes a chord" with a lot of women and men: "It is such a broad thing that came from our own personal feelings and experiences and we think people relate to that".

Independent

"Longer term it's about that journey towards software accountability," says Law. "Software accountability is quite a broad thing — it really means the ability to be able to know for sure what some software did as it ran.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

But in fact, this person claimed, "she is doing those broad things".

The New Yorker

We do four broad things: CRM, F&A [finance and accounting], procurement and supply chain and we've also got a big HR practice.

Forbes

"They lay broad things on me, like 'make sure we hit the mass market,' " Wright said after his brief stage appearance.

Forbes

"I did some broad things for the stage, but generally I think I communicated with the close-ups on television.

Los Angeles Times

And instead of the two people – President Obama and Governor Romney – talking in broad things about they want to make the world a better place, okay, tell us how.

Huffington Post

Appreciate the broad things and the little things.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "broad thing", ensure the context clarifies what specific aspects are encompassed within that broadness. This avoids ambiguity and provides more meaningful information for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "broad thing" as a substitute for specific details. While it can introduce a topic, follow it up with concrete examples to make your point clearer.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broad thing" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It refers to a general topic, issue, or concept that is wide-ranging or inclusive, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "broad thing" is a grammatically sound way to refer to a general concept or subject, as confirmed by Ludwig. While its frequency is rare, making it less common than other similar expressions, it serves the purpose of introducing wide-ranging topics in news, media, and wiki-based contexts. For formal writing, consider more precise alternatives like "general concept" or "overarching theme" to enhance clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

general concept

Emphasizes the concept's lack of specificity.

wide subject

Highlights the breadth of the topic.

inclusive matter

Stresses the comprehensive nature of the issue.

sweeping generalization

Implies a lack of specific details or nuances.

overarching theme

Suggests a dominant idea or principle.

comprehensive issue

Highlights the all-encompassing nature of the problem.

vast topic

Focuses on the extensive scope of the subject.

extensive subject

Similar to "vast topic" but emphasizes thoroughness.

global concern

Indicates a widespread issue affecting many.

universal theme

Suggests an idea relevant to all people.

FAQs

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

You can use "broad thing" to refer to a general concept or topic, as in "The discussion covered a "broad thing", encompassing various aspects of the issue".

What are some alternatives to "broad thing"?

Alternatives include "general concept", "wide subject", or "inclusive matter", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "broad thing" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "broad thing" might sound less formal than alternatives like "comprehensive issue" or "overarching theme". Consider your audience and the level of formality required.

What's the difference between "broad thing" and "general idea"?

"Broad thing" emphasizes the scope or extent of something, while "general idea" focuses on the lack of specificity. The best choice depends on the aspect you want to highlight.