to be broad

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be broad" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something that has a wide extent or range, often in terms of ideas, topics, or physical dimensions. Example: "The discussion needs to be broad enough to cover all relevant aspects of the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

And the comeback appears to be "broad".

The New York Times

"It's meant to be broad.

The New York Times

Those tend to be broad social and economic questions.

The New York Times

Their agendas tended to be broad and all-encompassing.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Tempos tend to be broad, threatening at times to bog down altogether.

The New York Times - Arts

"However, it's easy to understand why the guidelines have to be broad.

The Guardian

BBC1 has to be broad, as Stephenson was keen to point out at.

The Guardian

"All political parties, if they are to be successful, have to be broad churches," he says.

The Guardian

To overcome these structural disadvantages, the Democrats' campaign approach needs to be broad and bold.

The New Yorker

(His frame of reference appears to be broad, but it is actually unflinchingly specific).

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

You've got to be broad-based.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be broad", ensure the context clearly defines what aspect is being described as extensive or wide-ranging. For example, "The curriculum needs "to be broad" enough to cover various disciplines."

Common error

Avoid using "to be broad" without specifying the subject or area of breadth. A sentence like "The solution needs "to be broad"" is vague; clarify with "The solution needs "to be broad" in its application to different departments."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be broad" functions primarily as a verb phrase complemented by an adjective, indicating a state of having a wide extent or range. As per Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English. The examples showcase its use in describing scope, applicability, and coverage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be broad" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe something that is wide-ranging or extensive. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in written English. It finds common application across diverse domains, particularly in news, scientific literature, and encyclopedic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what aspect is intended to be understood as broad. Remember that more specific language can sometimes provide greater clarity than relying on the generalization of "to be broad". The phrase is suitable for neutral to professional registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be extensive

Focuses on the comprehensive and far-reaching nature of something, emphasizing detail and thoroughness.

to be wide-ranging

Highlights the variety and diversity of elements included within something, suggesting a comprehensive scope.

to be comprehensive

Stresses the inclusion of all relevant details or aspects, leaving nothing out.

to be all-encompassing

Emphasizes that something covers every possible aspect or element, leaving no exceptions.

to be inclusive

Indicates that something welcomes or incorporates a diverse range of elements or perspectives.

to be wide

Simple and direct, focusing on the physical or conceptual width of something.

to be general

Highlights the non-specific or non-detailed nature of something, covering overall aspects.

to be overarching

Suggests a dominant or unifying theme that encompasses various smaller elements.

to be sweeping

Implies a wide scope and dramatic impact, covering a large area or range.

to be universal

Indicates applicability to everyone or everything, without exception.

FAQs

How can I use "to be broad" in a sentence?

You can use "to be broad" to describe something encompassing a wide range or variety. For example, "The definition needs "to be broad" enough to include all possible cases."

What are some alternatives to "to be broad"?

Alternatives include "to be extensive", "to be wide-ranging", or "to be comprehensive", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "to be broad" or "to be wide"?

While both are correct, "to be broad" usually implies a more conceptual or thematic range, whereas "to be wide" often refers to physical dimensions or literal extent. The best choice depends on the context.

When should I avoid using the phrase "to be broad"?

Avoid using "to be broad" when you can be more specific about the range or scope you are describing. Overuse can lead to vagueness, so consider replacing it with more precise terms for clarity.