narrower in scope

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "narrower in scope" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the limitations or specific focus of a topic, project, or argument compared to a broader context. Example: "The new policy is narrower in scope than the previous one, addressing only specific issues rather than the entire range of concerns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Accordingly they have also been narrower in scope.

The New York Times

They would like a bill narrower in scope, one that would restrict lawsuits.

The New York Times

Although narrower in scope, ecotoxicology played an important role in the development of environmental toxicology.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The patent is widely known as the "pinch to zoom" patent, but the software is actually narrower in scope.

The New York Times - Tech

It is narrower in scope than its predecessor, which followed a multicultural cohort of actors, dancers and singers through sexual identity crises and professional growing pains.

The New York Times

Past investigations of Henry Blodget and Jack B. Grubman, research analysts at Merrill Lynch and Salomon Smith Barney, were narrower in scope.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

It was spunky, if narrow in scope.

The New York Times - Arts

Embargoes may be broad or narrow in scope.

Encyclopedia Britannica

C. K. Williams's poems are broad in scale and narrow in scope.

The New York Times

They said they feared that Tuesday's drill would be too narrow in scope.

The New York Times

They are too early, too careful, each too narrow in scope for that.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "narrower in scope", ensure that you clearly define what the broader scope is for comparison. This provides context and clarifies the limitation.

Common error

Avoid using "narrower in scope" without specifying what the original or broader scope encompasses. Without this context, the phrase lacks meaning and can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "narrower in scope" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun or concept. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, denoting a limitation or restriction in breadth or extent.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "narrower in scope" is a grammatically sound and commonly used comparative phrase that indicates a limitation or restriction in the breadth of a subject or project. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and offers helpful contextual examples. It's most frequently found in news, academic, and scientific sources, suggesting a professional and neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly define what the original or broader scope is to provide adequate context. While there are semantically similar alternatives available, choosing "narrower in scope" often provides the most direct and readily understood comparison.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more limited in extent

Focuses on the limitation of the extent rather than the breadth of application.

more restricted in range

Emphasizes the limitation of the range or variety.

more limited in application

Highlights the specific application area being limited.

more focused in coverage

Indicates a sharper, more concentrated focus.

more specific in detail

Highlights a greater level of specificity, reducing generality.

more concise in outline

Indicates a reduction in the length or complexity of the outline.

more precise in definition

Focuses on accuracy and exactness in defining something.

more targeted in approach

Highlights a specific, deliberate targeting strategy.

more refined in selection

Suggests a careful and improved selection process.

more circumscribed in area

Emphasizes the boundaries or limits of the area under consideration.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "narrower in scope" in a sentence?

To effectively use "narrower in scope", clearly contrast it with a broader or previous context. For example, "The new regulation is "narrower in scope" than the previous one, focusing only on specific industries."

What are some alternatives to "narrower in scope" that I can use in my writing?

Alternatives to "narrower in scope" include "more limited in extent", "more restricted in range", or "more focused in coverage". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "more narrow in scope" instead of "narrower in scope"?

While "more narrow in scope" isn't incorrect, "narrower in scope" is generally preferred for being more concise and grammatically standard when making a direct comparison.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "narrower in scope"?

The phrase "narrower in scope" is appropriate when discussing a topic, project, or argument that has a more limited focus or extent compared to something broader or previous. This often happens in legal, academic, or policy contexts.