smile broadly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "smile broadly" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's expression, especially to emphasize how wide they were smiling. For example, "He was so delighted to receive the news that he smiled broadly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Then they smile broadly and beg us: "Be safe on your way back home".

The Guardian - Music

If viewers see the similarity, they might smile broadly while surveying this stark narrative.

The New York Times

I'm a New Englander, which means I don't smile broadly at strangers and ask how they're doing.

The New York Times

Nearly 75 years later, the near-comedy of the situation made John T. Scopes Jr. smile broadly.

The New York Times

But he was confident that he would be able to raise money in China and elsewhere, and that he would "make every investor smile broadly".

The New Yorker

Miura and his son Gota called them from the summit, prompting his daughter Emili to smile broadly and clap her hands in footage on public broadcaster NHK.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

He smiled broadly.

The New York Times

He smiled broadly again.

The New Yorker

Kaptchuk smiled broadly.

The New Yorker

I smiled broadly.

The New York Times

She smiles broadly.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "smile broadly" to vividly describe a genuine and expansive smile, indicating strong positive emotion or enthusiasm. This phrase is particularly effective when you want to emphasize the intensity of the smile, making the expression more impactful for the reader.

Common error

While "smile broadly" is a vivid descriptor, overuse can diminish its impact. Vary your descriptions by using synonyms such as "grin widely" or "beam with delight" to maintain reader engagement and avoid monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smile broadly" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying the verb "smile" to specify how the action is performed. It vividly describes the manner of smiling, emphasizing the width and intensity of the expression. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "smile broadly" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a wide, expressive smile that conveys positive emotions. According to Ludwig AI, its use is both correct and versatile across various contexts. Predominantly found in "News & Media" and "Wiki" sources, this phrase effectively paints a picture of genuine happiness or approval. Alternatives such as "grin widely" and "beam with delight" offer nuanced variations, allowing writers to tailor their descriptions for maximum impact. While "smile broadly" is generally appropriate, be mindful of the context to ensure it aligns with the overall tone and doesn't appear insensitive. Overusing the phrase might diminish its effect, so incorporating synonyms can enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grin widely

Focuses more on the openness and extent of the smile, rather than the emotion behind it.

beam with delight

Emphasizes the feeling of pleasure causing the smile.

grin from ear to ear

A more idiomatic way to say someone is smiling very widely.

wear a radiant smile

Highlights the positive and attractive quality of the smile.

give a hearty smile

Suggests the smile is genuine and enthusiastic.

express joy with a smile

Makes explicit that the smile is an outward manifestation of happiness.

display a cheerful grin

Emphasizes the cheerfulness conveyed by the smile.

flash a broad smile

Focuses on the quickness and visibility of the smile.

offer a big smile

Simple way to describe the size and generosity of the smile.

light up with a smile

Suggests the smile has an illuminating and transformative effect on the person's face.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "smile broadly" in a sentence?

Use "smile broadly" to describe a wide and genuine smile that reflects happiness or approval. For instance, "She "smiled broadly" upon receiving the award" conveys her joy more vividly than simply saying she smiled.

What are some alternatives to "smile broadly"?

Alternatives include "grin widely", "beam with delight", or "grin from ear to ear". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey about the smile's intensity and the emotion behind it.

Is it ever inappropriate to describe someone as "smiling broadly"?

While generally positive, describing someone as "smiling broadly" might be inappropriate if the context is serious or somber, as it could suggest insensitivity. Ensure the described expression aligns with the overall tone of the situation.

What's the difference between "smile broadly" and "smirk"?

"Smile broadly" describes a genuine, wide smile often expressing joy, while a "smirk" implies a knowing, often self-satisfied or mischievous smile. A smirk is usually less open and can suggest ulterior motives.