can be broadly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be broadly" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something can be generalized or applied in a wide context. Example: "The findings of the study can be broadly applied to various fields of research."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This can be broadly defined.

The Economist

Synaesthetes can be broadly divided into two groups.

The Guardian

Lentils can be broadly divided into two groups.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Meditation can be broadly defined as any activity that involves controlling your attention.

The Guardian

Online abuse in the UK can be broadly broken down into two categories.

The Guardian - Tech

The rummy family can be broadly divided into positive and negative types.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These can be broadly categorized as under.

Protection and Control of Modern Power Systems

A number of approaches to it can be broadly delineated.

SEP

They can be broadly classified into three categories.

Product Development A Structured Approach to Consumer Product Development, Design, and Manufacture

Decomposition of MDPs can be broadly classified into two categories.

Vietnam Journal of Computer Science

These methods can be broadly classified into classical and modern.

Protection and Control of Modern Power Systems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can be broadly" when you want to indicate that a statement, classification, or application has a wide scope or is generally applicable. This helps to avoid overly specific or narrow interpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "can be broadly" when the statement only applies to a limited or specific context. Overgeneralizing can lead to inaccuracies and misinterpretations. Always ensure that the broad application is justified.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be broadly" functions as a qualifier or modifier, indicating the extent or scope to which something is applicable, classified, or defined. It introduces a degree of generalization, suggesting that the statement holds true in a wide range of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

43%

News & Media

38%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can be broadly" is a versatile qualifier that signals a general application or classification. As evidenced by Ludwig's AI response, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and is frequently used in various contexts, especially in science and news media. The phrase functions to introduce a wide scope and suggests that the information being presented is not limited to specific instances, but Ludwig underlines that overgeneralizing can lead to inaccuracies. While alternatives like "can be generally" or "can be widely" exist, "can be broadly" remains a common and effective way to convey generality in writing. Therefore, use it judiciously, ensuring the broad application is justified and accurate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be generally

Replaces "broadly" with "generally", indicating a common or widespread application or understanding.

can be widely

Replaces "broadly" with "widely", emphasizing the extent or range of applicability.

can be largely

Replaces "broadly" with "largely", suggesting that something is true or applicable to a great extent.

can be mainly

Emphasizes the principal aspect or division.

can be primarily

Highlights the main or most important aspect.

can be mostly

Indicates that something is true or applicable in most cases.

can be fundamentally

Focuses on the essential or basic nature of the classification.

can be roughly

Implies an approximate or imprecise categorization.

can be loosely

Suggests a less strict or defined classification.

can be approximately

Highlights that the categorization is not exact.

FAQs

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

You can use "can be broadly" to introduce a general classification or application, such as, "The methods "can be broadly divided" into two categories" or "The results "can be broadly applied" to other studies".

What's the difference between "can be broadly" and "can be generally"?

"Can be broadly" emphasizes the wide scope or range of something, while "can be generally" highlights commonality or widespread acceptance. The choice depends on whether you want to stress the extent or the typical nature of the application.

What are some alternatives to "can be broadly"?

Alternatives include "can be generally", "can be widely", "can be largely", and "can be primarily". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "can be broadly"?

No, it's important to ensure that the "broad" application is accurate and justified. Avoid using it if the statement only applies to a limited or specific context, as this can lead to overgeneralization.