but not broad

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but not broad" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to specify that something is limited in scope or extent, contrasting with a broader option. Example: "The focus of the study is narrow, but not broad, allowing for a more in-depth analysis of the specific issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The White House is calculating that opposition to Mr. Hagel may be loud but not broad and that in end the Senate will confirm him.

The New York Times

His name is Steven Russell and he's played with bold but not broad choices by Jim Carrey.

Huffington Post

By contrast, narrow perches, but not broad perches, were abundant in natural habitat (Fig. 4).

Evolutionary Applications

Also, PfMRK is inhibited by bromohydrosulfonylacetamides which possess moderate antimalarial activity against drug resistant parasites, but not broad spectrum CDK inhibitors [ 35].

BMC Genomics

Multiple-locus variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) analysis (MLVA) of B. pseudomallei and B. mallei is effective for determining relationships among very closely related isolates, but not broad patterns of relatedness [ 20, 21].

BMC Biology

Manuscripts deemed valuable but not broad enough in scope are referred to our sister journal G3: Genes|Genomes|Genetics. (Reviewers take note: manuscripts that you are asked to review have passed a stringent pre-review process; since 2009, we have declined to review ∼25% of submitted manuscripts, about one-third of which have been recommended for consideration by G3).

Genetics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

There was also some suggestion from our data that non-white children were more likely to report owning a Pit Bull type (but not broader Bull Breeds) than white children.

BMC Veterinary Research

Like him, but perhaps not broad enough in his appeal.

The New York Times

The neck and shoulders are well muscled, and the chest deep but generally not broad.

Wikipedia

Spielberg works on a broad canvas, but not that broad.

The New Yorker

The heart of this novel is not broad brushstrokes but minutiae.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but not broad", ensure the contrast is clear. Specify what the subject is, not just what it isn't. For example, instead of "The appeal was but not broad", clarify: "The appeal was passionate but not broad; it resonated strongly with a specific demographic".

Common error

Avoid using "but not broad" as a filler phrase without clearly defining the limited scope. Instead of simply stating something isn't broad, provide specific details about its actual scope and limitations. Being precise improves clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but not broad" serves as a modifier, typically clarifying the extent or scope of a preceding noun or idea. Ludwig examples show it limiting adjectives or nouns, specifying that something is not general or wide-ranging, in line with the Ludwig AI affirmation that the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

50%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but not broad" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon construction used to specify the limitations of a concept or attribute. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, indicating a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences. When employing this phrase, ensure the contrasting element is clearly defined to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "but not extensive" or "but rather specific" can offer nuanced ways to express similar limitations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

yet not extensive

Replaces "broad" with "extensive", focusing on the range or scope of something, implying a narrower scope.

though not wide-ranging

Similar to "yet not extensive", but uses "wide-ranging" to emphasize the comprehensiveness that is being limited.

but rather specific

This alternative shifts the focus to the precision or particularity of the subject, contrasting with generality.

but not all-encompassing

Highlights the lack of complete coverage, suggesting that the subject does not include everything.

but not comprehensive

Emphasizes that the subject is not thorough or complete in its coverage.

but more focused

Shifts the emphasis towards a concentrated or targeted approach, suggesting a deliberate limitation of scope.

but not general

This alternative directly contrasts the subject with generality, highlighting its specificity.

yet more targeted

Similar to "but more focused", but emphasizes the precision and aim of the subject.

though more concise

Implies that the subject is brief and to the point, rather than expansive or detailed.

but not universal

Indicates that the subject does not apply to everyone or everything, highlighting its limited applicability.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "but not broad" in a sentence?

Use "but not broad" to indicate that something is specific or limited in scope, rather than general or extensive. For example, "The support was enthusiastic but not broad, concentrated mainly among younger voters."

What are some alternatives to "but not broad"?

Alternatives include "but not extensive", "but rather specific", or "but more focused", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to use "but not broad"?

Yes, "but not broad" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English sentence structure and is commonly used to express a contrast or limitation.

When should I use "but not broad" versus "but not deep"?

"But not broad" suggests a limited scope or reach, while "but not deep" suggests a lack of thoroughness or complexity. Choose the phrase that best reflects the specific limitation you're describing.