narrowly conceived

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "narrowly conceived" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to refer to something that is thought of or considered in a limited way. For example, "His understanding of the issue was narrowly conceived; he failed to consider the more complex implications of his decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

The subject, too, in those days was quite narrowly conceived.

The Guardian - Opinion

Despite all the talk about counterterrorism, the war has never been so narrowly conceived or fought.

The New York Times

The lesson or syllabus proper is thus not to be narrowly conceived of as "chalk and talk" instruction.

Britannica

A well-intentioned project, too narrowly conceived and absent local knowledge, can be more unhealthy than helpful.

The Guardian

People willingly put religious beliefs, personal dignity or values ahead of a narrowly conceived economic self-interest.

The New York Times

Because the tests are so narrowly conceived, some commission members said, they exercise a "stultifying" influ ence on education.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Some 300 pages later Mr. Brody sums up what he has learned about several of the peoples who live on the edges of what most of us would narrowly conceive of as civilization.

The New York Times - Books

These critics rely on a regulative model that narrowly conceives of human rights laws as potentially enforceable rules without teeth.

Johns Hopkins University

Its continuation then became a product of development, but broadly, not narrowly economically, conceived.

Asia Pacific Viewpoint

While Valla's notes had remained narrowly philological, Erasmus conceived a more far-ranging approach that was a greater challenge to traditional exegesis (Tracy 1972 154 155).

SEP

Definitions are narrowly to broadly conceived [ 10, 11].

BMC Health Services Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "narrowly conceived" to critique plans, policies, or ideas that lack a comprehensive or holistic approach. This highlights the limitations and potential oversights resulting from a restricted viewpoint.

Common error

While acceptable, avoid overusing "narrowly conceived" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for synonyms like "limited in scope" or "restricted in perspective" to maintain a nuanced and professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "narrowly conceived" typically functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the manner in which something has been thought out or planned, highlighting a limitation or restriction in its scope or perspective. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "narrowly conceived" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that serves to critique the limited scope or perspective of an idea or plan. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a valid and useful part of the English language. Predominantly found in news, scientific, and academic contexts, the phrase suggests a formal and analytical tone. Writers should consider synonyms such as "limited in scope" or "restricted in perspective" for variety. When employing "narrowly conceived", ensure that the context clearly indicates the limitations and potential consequences arising from the restricted viewpoint to effectively convey the intended critique.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limited in scope

Focuses on the restriction of the area or subject matter covered.

restricted in perspective

Emphasizes the constrained viewpoint or outlook.

limited in understanding

Highlights a lack of comprehensive knowledge or insight.

simplistic in nature

Suggests an oversimplified or uncomplicated approach.

parochial in outlook

Implies a narrow, local, or limited viewpoint.

insular in thinking

Indicates a closed-minded or isolated perspective.

myopic in vision

Uses 'myopic' to describe a short-sighted or narrow focus.

shallow in depth

Indicates a lack of profoundness or thoroughness.

circumscribed in thought

Highlights the bounded or restricted nature of thinking.

confined in interpretation

Focuses on a limited or restricted understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "narrowly conceived" in a sentence?

You can use "narrowly conceived" to describe something, like a plan or idea, that is limited in scope or perspective. For example, "The project was "narrowly conceived", focusing only on short-term gains."

What are some alternatives to "narrowly conceived"?

Alternatives include "limited in scope", "restricted in perspective", or "simplistic in nature". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean for something to be "narrowly conceived"?

It means that the idea, plan, or concept was developed with a limited or restricted viewpoint. This can lead to oversights or a lack of comprehensive understanding.

Is it better to have a "narrowly conceived" or a broadly conceived plan?

Generally, a broadly conceived plan is preferable because it considers more factors and potential consequences. However, in some cases, a "narrowly conceived" plan may be appropriate if the goal is very specific and limited in scope.