broadly interpreted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'broadly interpreted' is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used in academic writing to indicate that an idea, definition, or interpretation is being considered more generally than an exact definition. For example, "The term 'social justice' can be broadly interpreted to mean equitable access to resources for all members of society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The theme there was divas, broadly interpreted.

The New York Times - Travel

Two degrees was broadly interpreted as the temperature that could produce further, potentially runaway warming.

The Guardian

Reorganized in 2000, the company remained committed to political theatre, but perhaps as more broadly interpreted.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Sustainability, a broadly interpreted term, denotes the stewardship of farmland and groundwater in ecologically sound ways.

The New York Times

"If the bill is broadly interpreted, it could affect tens of thousands of workers," Mr. Pally said.

The New York Times

Ms. Paiz said the peace accords' reference to every Guatemalan's right to land has been broadly interpreted.

The New York Times

For decades, "navigable waters" was broadly interpreted by regulators to include many large wetlands and streams that connected to major rivers.

The New York Times

Then, Western countries broadly interpreted the resolution in order to justify military strikes on the regime of Colonel Muammar el-Qaddafi and to emerge as Libya's liberators.

The New York Times

It was part of Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia's New Deal-financed program for health centers, broadly interpreted to include playrooms, auditoriums and social service offices.

The New York Times

For nearly three decades, the Clean Water Act was broadly interpreted by the courts and federal regulators as shielding all the waters of the United States — seasonal streams and remote wetlands as well as lakes and large navigable rivers.

The New York Times

Universities' use of the federal privacy law to deny information requests has long frustrated journalists and other free-press advocates, who say it was never intended to be broadly interpreted when it was passed 35 years ago.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "broadly interpreted", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being interpreted and by whom, to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify whether it's a law, concept, or statement being viewed in a general sense.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a "broadly interpreted" concept has no limitations. Even with a general understanding, specific boundaries or constraints often exist. Acknowledge these to maintain accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broadly interpreted" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a passive construction. It indicates that something (a law, a concept, a statement) is being understood or explained in a general, rather than a specific or narrow, way. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "broadly interpreted" is a commonly used phrase that signifies a general or inclusive understanding of a concept, rule, or law. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across various fields. As highlighted by the numerous examples, its use spans from news and media to scientific and encyclopedic contexts. To avoid ambiguity, always specify what is being interpreted and by whom. While "broadly interpreted" suggests flexibility, be mindful of the potential for overgeneralization and the need to acknowledge existing limitations. Related phrases include "widely understood" and "generously construed", which offer similar but nuanced meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

interpreted expansively

Highlights the large scope and comprehensive nature of the interpretation.

inclusively interpreted

Emphasizes an interpretation that seeks to include as many elements as possible.

generously construed

Focuses on the lenient and expansive nature of the interpretation.

widely understood

Emphasizes the commonality of the interpretation among people.

loosely defined

Highlights the lack of strict boundaries in the definition.

generally perceived

Focuses on the overall impression and public understanding.

commonly accepted

Indicates an interpretation that is agreed upon by most.

liberally applied

Highlights the flexible and unrestricted application of a rule or concept.

extensively covered

Focuses on detailed explanation and analysis.

flexibly understood

Emphasizes the adaptability and non-rigid interpretation.

FAQs

How can I use "broadly interpreted" in a sentence?

You can use "broadly interpreted" to describe how a rule, law, or concept is understood in a general or inclusive way. For example, "The term 'family' is often "broadly interpreted" to include non-traditional family structures."

What is a good alternative to "broadly interpreted"?

Alternatives to "broadly interpreted" include "widely understood", "generally accepted", or "loosely defined", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean for something to be "broadly interpreted"?

When something is "broadly interpreted", it means it's understood in a general sense, often including a wide range of possible meanings or applications. This contrasts with a narrow or literal interpretation.

When is it appropriate to use "broadly interpreted" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "broadly interpreted" when you want to indicate that a term, rule, or concept is not being understood in a strict or limited way. This is often useful when discussing legal, social, or philosophical concepts.