slightly broader

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slightly broader" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing dimensions, concepts, or ideas that are marginally wider or more extensive than something else. Example: "The new design is slightly broader than the previous model, allowing for more storage space."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The particle size distributions become slightly broader as f increases.

Acta Materialia

The mode distribution of star-shaped PPGs is slightly broader than that of linear PPGs.

Polymer

Although slightly broader in scope, the FTC's complaint essentially mirrors the commission's.

The Economist

Earlier attempts to pass slightly broader "personhood" amendments in previous election years have also failed in the state.

The Washington Post

In fact, the benefits that were included for the wind sector are slightly broader now than in previous years.

The New York Times

Instead, it should identify a slightly broader set of topics and pull the audience in so they'll want to discuss the details.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

marx and SAOTrace simulations predict a very similar PSF shape, but for most energies the SAOTrace model predicts a slightly broader PSF.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

C. amomum subsp. amomum occurs mostly south of our range, and has slightly broader leaves with usually rounded or truncate bases and lacks papillae on the lower surface.

Cornell University

What if Bush's emotional range had been just slightly broader, enough to get him past fuddy-duddy anguish and to dignified outrage?

The New Yorker

One of the titles it was up against was another Australian film with, shall we say, slightly broader appeal: director Peter Faiman's Crocodile Dundee.

The Guardian - Film

It's the kind of look that works well on a slightly broader frame and, almost more than any other vest, seems to demand extremely good arm definition.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two options, use "slightly broader" to highlight that one encompasses a marginally larger scope or range than the other. This subtle comparison is useful in academic writing, business proposals, and news reports.

Common error

Avoid using "slightly broader" when the difference is actually significant. If the scope is substantially larger, use phrases like "much broader" or "significantly more extensive" to accurately reflect the magnitude of the difference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly broader" functions as an adjectival modifier, typically describing a noun by indicating a marginal increase in its scope, range, or extent. As shown by Ludwig, it is frequently used to make subtle comparisons across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

35%

Academia

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "slightly broader" is a versatile and commonly used adjectival modifier used to indicate a small difference in scope or extent. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and appears across various contexts, including science, news media, and academia. Its usage allows for nuanced comparisons, avoiding hyperbole while still acknowledging distinctions. While "slightly broader" is suitable for many situations, it's important to ensure that the difference is indeed minimal, or choose a more appropriate alternative to accurately reflect the magnitude of the difference.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just a little wider

Emphasizes the small degree of difference in width; direct and straightforward.

somewhat wider

Indicates a degree of wideness that is moderate, similar to 'slightly broader' but potentially implying a more noticeable difference.

modestly wider

Conveys a subtle increase in width that is not particularly significant.

marginally more extensive

Focuses on the extent or scope being just a bit larger, emphasizing the comprehensiveness rather than physical width.

barely wider

Implies the increase in wideness is minimal and almost imperceptible.

a little more expansive

Highlights the increased capacity or coverage, with a slightly more metaphorical connotation than "slightly broader".

slightly expanded

Indicates an extension in range or coverage, similar to "slightly broader" in a more abstract sense.

somewhat more comprehensive

Emphasizes completeness and inclusivity, suggesting that the subject covers more aspects or details.

a bit more inclusive

Focuses on the ability to contain or involve more elements, implying a greater range of participation or consideration.

somewhat enlarged

Suggests an increase in size, not limited to width but applicable to overall dimensions.

FAQs

How can I use "slightly broader" in a sentence?

You can use "slightly broader" to compare the scope or extent of two things, such as, "The new definition is "slightly broader" than the original one, covering more aspects of the issue."

What are some alternatives to "slightly broader"?

Alternatives to "slightly broader" include "somewhat wider", "marginally more extensive", or "a little more expansive", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "slightly broader" versus "much broader"?

"Slightly broader" is appropriate when the difference in scope is minimal. Use "much broader" when the difference is significant and more pronounced.

Is "slightly broader" formal or informal?

"Slightly broader" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its neutrality makes it a versatile choice for various writing styles.