too narrow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "too narrow" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is too limited or constricting. For example: The topic of the essay was too narrow and did not allow for a thorough exploration of the subject.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They were not — too narrow.

The New Yorker

The roads are too narrow.

The New York Times

Or too narrow?

The Guardian

That's way too narrow!

The New Yorker

But its commercial soul is too narrow.

The New York Times

On reflection, that column was too narrow.

The New York Times

Its sensibility is too narrow.

The New York Times - Arts

The audience was too narrow.

The New York Times - Magazine

But that remark is too narrow.

The New York Times

Giuliani is too narrow minded.

The New York Times

(The daybed was too narrow, Allbee explains).

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "too narrow" to describe an argument or perspective, provide specific examples of what aspects are being overlooked or oversimplified. This strengthens your critique and makes it more persuasive.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something is "too narrow" without explaining why. Ensure you elaborate on the limitations or consequences of the narrow focus to give your statement more weight and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "too narrow" functions primarily as an adjective phrase, modifying nouns to indicate that something is excessively limited in scope, dimension, or perspective. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "too narrow" is a common and grammatically sound adjective phrase used to express that something is excessively limited or restrictive. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase adheres to standard grammar rules. It's frequently found in news, media, and scientific contexts, with a neutral register suitable for diverse writing scenarios. When employing "too narrow", be sure to clarify why something is considered too narrow to enhance the clarity and persuasive power of your writing. Consider alternatives such as "too limited" or "too restrictive" to fine-tune your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

too limited

Focuses on the restriction in scope or extent.

too restrictive

Emphasizes the limiting nature of something.

excessively narrow

Highlights the excessiveness of the limited scope.

overly narrow

Similar to excessively narrow, but with slightly less intensity.

too small

Indicates a lack of physical or metaphorical size.

too reductionist

Describes an oversimplified perspective.

too shortsighted

Focuses on a lack of long-term vision.

too parochial

Implies a narrow-minded or local perspective.

too myopic

Like shortsighted, but more formal.

too rigid

Highlights a lack of flexibility.

FAQs

How can I use "too narrow" in a sentence?

You can use "too narrow" to describe a range of things, such as an argument, a focus, or a physical space. For example, "The scope of the investigation was "too narrow" to uncover the full extent of the problem".

What can I say instead of "too narrow"?

You can use alternatives like "too limited", "too restrictive", or "excessively narrow" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "too narrow" or "too narrowly"?

"Too narrow" is generally used as an adjective phrase to describe something's scope or dimensions, while "too narrowly" (e.g., "defined too narrowly") functions as an adverb modifying a verb.

What's the difference between "too narrow" and "too limited"?

While both suggest restriction, "too narrow" often refers to physical dimensions or scope, whereas "too limited" more broadly describes a lack of resources, options, or opportunities.