can be broadly defined

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can be broadly defined" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when discussing concepts or terms that have a wide range of interpretations or meanings. Example: "The term 'sustainability' can be broadly defined to encompass environmental, social, and economic dimensions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This can be broadly defined.

The Economist

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

The Guardian

Lipid peroxidation can be broadly defined as the process of inserting a hydroperoxy group into a lipid.

Brain Research

Increasingly UN missions have taken on "stabilisation" tasks, which can be broadly defined as filling the gap between emergency humanitarian assistance and longer-term development.

The Guardian - Opinion

And if Purnell has been talked about on the right of the party, then Jon Cruddas can be broadly defined as on the left.

The Guardian

6. (C) The second issue that will limit any proposed Aramco output expansion can be broadly defined as a lack of supporting resources.

The Guardian - Business

Environmental enteropathy (EE) can be broadly defined as an enteropathy caused by an environmental exposure, and has been associated with growth failure among infants in Africa and Asia.

Cornell University

Those worlds can be broadly defined as Russia (where he was from), France (where he became a star) and the United States (where he became an eminence).

The New York Times - Arts

They share an identity that can be broadly defined as "chic rock'n'roll", selling a look that appeals to women who don't want to show off tons of flesh but can still order a strong margarita when the occasion demands.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Permanent residency can be revoked, and green card holders can be deported if they are convicted on charges such as aggravated felonies, drug trafficking and crimes of "moral turpitude," which can be broadly defined.

The New York Times

This competence can be broadly defined as the confident, critical and creative use of ICT to achieve goals related to work, employability, learning, leisure, inclusion and/or participation in society (Ferrari, 2013).

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "can be broadly defined", follow it with a clear and concise explanation of the concept's main aspects. Provide context and examples to ensure clarity for your audience.

Common error

Avoid making definitions too vague when using "can be broadly defined". Ensure the definition still provides meaningful boundaries and distinctions, preventing misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can be broadly defined" serves as an introductory device. It indicates that the subsequent definition is not exhaustive but rather a general understanding of a concept or term. Ludwig AI confirms that this is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

36%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "can be broadly defined" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that serves to introduce a general understanding of a concept. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for a range of writing contexts, particularly in scientific, academic, and news-related content. While adaptable, ensure definitions that follow are clear and provide enough context to avoid being overly vague. Its frequency and presence in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscore its acceptance and utility in professional and academic discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be generally described

Focuses on providing a general description rather than a strict definition.

can be widely interpreted

Highlights the potential for various interpretations of the subject.

can be loosely understood

Suggests a flexible and not very precise understanding.

can be taken to mean

Emphasizes the implied meaning or interpretation of something.

can be considered as

Introduces an alternative perspective or classification.

is often understood as

Indicates a common but possibly not universally accepted understanding.

is commonly regarded as

Shows how something is typically viewed or regarded.

can be seen as

Presents a specific viewpoint or interpretation.

is effectively

Highlights the functional result or outcome of something.

is essentially

Pinpoints the fundamental nature or essence of something.

FAQs

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

Use "can be broadly defined" to introduce a general definition of a term or concept, acknowledging that different interpretations may exist. For example, "Sustainability "can be broadly defined" as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs".

What can I say instead of "can be broadly defined"?

You can use alternatives like "can be generally described", "can be widely interpreted", or "is often understood as" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it acceptable to use "can be broadly defined" in formal writing?

Yes, "can be broadly defined" is acceptable in formal writing, especially when introducing a concept with varying interpretations. However, always ensure that the subsequent definition provides sufficient clarity and context for the reader.

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

"Can be broadly defined" suggests a flexible interpretation of a term, while "can be strictly defined" implies a precise and limited interpretation. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the concept's flexibility or its specific boundaries.