smiled broadly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "smiled broadly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is smiling in a wide and cheerful manner, often indicating happiness or joy. Example: "When she heard the good news, she smiled broadly, lighting up the entire room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 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

Mr Berlusconi smiled broadly.

The Economist

He then smiled broadly.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

She smiles broadly.

The New Yorker

He was smiling broadly.

The New Yorker

Me smiling broadly?

The Guardian - Sport

Smith smiles broadly.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Dr. Illig was smiling broadly.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "smiled broadly" to clearly convey a genuine and visible expression of happiness or satisfaction. It is effective when you want to emphasize the size and sincerity of the smile.

Common error

While "smiled broadly" is acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more nuanced descriptions of facial expressions to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smiled broadly" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying the verb "smiled". It describes how someone smiled, adding detail about the manner of their expression. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "smiled broadly" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a wide, expressive smile, often indicative of happiness or joy. As Ludwig confirms, it is frequently used in news and media contexts. While versatile, it's important to consider the tone of your writing and choose more subtle descriptions for highly formal situations. Alternatives like "grinned widely" or "beamed with joy" can offer slightly different nuances. Remember to use "smiled broadly" to add clarity and emotion to your descriptions of people's expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grinned widely

Replaces "smiled" with "grinned", suggesting a slightly more playful or mischievous expression.

smiled from ear to ear

An idiomatic expression indicating an extremely wide smile.

smiled expansively

Expansively suggests a smile that is generous and open.

beamed with joy

Emphasizes the emotion behind the smile, highlighting the feeling of joy.

smiled radiantly

Focuses on the brightness and positivity of the smile, suggesting a glowing expression.

expressed joy with a smile

Highlights the smile as a means of expressing the emotion of joy.

face lit up with a smile

Indicates that the smile made the entire face appear brighter and more animated.

gave a big smile

A more literal and descriptive way to express a broad smile.

wore a wide smile

Describes the smile as something worn or displayed, emphasizing its prominence.

had a broad smile on their face

More descriptive, specifying where the smile is located.

FAQs

How can I use "smiled broadly" in a sentence?

You can use "smiled broadly" to describe someone showing happiness or satisfaction with a wide smile. For example: "She "smiled broadly" upon receiving the award."

What are some alternatives to "smiled broadly"?

Alternatives include "grinned widely", "beamed with joy", or "smiled radiantly". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever inappropriate to use "smiled broadly"?

While generally acceptable, "smiled broadly" might be too informal for very formal or somber contexts. Consider the tone of your writing and choose a more subtle description if needed.

What's the difference between "smiled broadly" and "smiled slightly"?

"Smiled broadly" indicates a large, expressive smile, while "smiled slightly" suggests a small, restrained smile. The key difference is the degree of the expression.