span a broad range

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "span a broad range" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that covers a wide variety of topics, subjects, or areas. Example: "The conference will span a broad range of issues related to climate change and sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Its viewers span a broad range of age and race.

The New Yorker

The six teams span a broad range of generations, nationalities and architectural points of view.

The New York Times

Avila's achievements are many and span a broad range of topics; here we focus on only a few highlights.

The Guardian

It would be riddled with references to pop culture and would span a broad range of topics.

The New Yorker

The apartments affected span a broad range of neighborhoods and prices, from an $1,800 studio on East Eighth Street (now $1,450) to a four-bedroom $14,000 high-rise rental off Riverside Drive (now $8,900).

The New York Times

It will be distributed on Wednesdays in six cities. "The content will span a broad range of content from fashion and beauty through to newsy features and travel, careers and relationships," Soutar said.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

A treasure-trove of pop-culture references, the 35 video loops spanned a broad range of comedic sensibility, from overblown violence to cheeky minimalism.

The New York Times

Mr. Hooker explained that in the 45 years since they appeared in the American market, the motorcycles offered by Japanese makers have spanned a broad range of rider needs, budgets and skill levels.

The New York Times

Knol has been called a potential rival to Wikipedia and other sites whose content spans a broad range of topics, including Mahalo and About.com, a property of The New York Times Company that uses experts it calls "guides" to write articles on a variety of topics.

The New York Times - Tech

New York is now home to more than 1,000 start-ups spanning a broad range of industries.

BBC

Systems, when stressed or deformed slowly, respond with discrete events spanning a broad range of sizes, called "crackling noise".

Les Houches

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "span a broad range" to clearly indicate that a subject covers a wide variety of topics or elements. For example, use it to describe the scope of a conference, a curriculum, or a research project.

Common error

Avoid using "span a broad range" when a more specific term would provide a clearer picture of the subject's scope. Overuse can make your writing sound vague and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "span a broad range" functions as a descriptor, indicating that something covers a wide spectrum or variety of topics, subjects, or sizes. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's used to describe the scope or extent of something.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "span a broad range" is a versatile and commonly used expression that effectively conveys the idea of encompassing a wide variety of elements or topics. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. While it is most frequently encountered in scientific and news contexts, its neutral register makes it suitable for various writing styles. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that it accurately reflects the scope of the subject and to avoid overuse, which can lead to vagueness. Consider using alternatives like "encompass a wide spectrum" or "cover a wide array" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

encompass a wide spectrum

This alternative emphasizes inclusion and variety, similar to covering a broad range.

cover a wide array

Focuses on the variety of items included, suggesting a comprehensive selection.

extend across a diverse scope

Highlights the reach and variety of the subject matter.

range over an extensive field

Suggests movement across a wide area of knowledge or activity.

include a comprehensive assortment

Emphasizes the completeness of the collection or group.

embrace a multitude of aspects

Focuses on the numerous facets or elements that are part of the whole.

incorporate a vast selection

Highlights the size and diversity of the items included.

run the gamut

Suggests covering all possible points or items within a spectrum.

traverse a heterogeneous landscape

Implies moving across a varied and diverse environment or subject area.

address a wide gamut of concerns

This alternative specifically emphasizes that many concerns are resolved.

FAQs

How can I use "span a broad range" in a sentence?

You can use "span a broad range" to describe the extent of something. For example, "The curriculum "spans a broad range" of historical periods."

What are some alternatives to "span a broad range"?

Some alternatives include "cover a wide array", "encompass a wide spectrum", or "include a comprehensive assortment", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "spanning a broad range" or "covering a broad range"?

Both are acceptable, but "spanning a broad range" might be preferred in more formal or academic contexts, while "covering a broad range" is generally suitable for more informal writing.

What's the difference between "span a broad range" and "include a wide variety"?

"Span a broad range" emphasizes the extent or scope of something, while "include a wide variety" highlights the diversity of elements included. They're similar, but the emphasis is slightly different.