wide latitude

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wide latitude" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where there is a significant amount of freedom or flexibility in making decisions or taking actions. Example: "The manager gave the team wide latitude to explore innovative solutions to the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Because the law allowed states wide latitude, the goals for graduation rates vary widely.

The New York Times

Legally, co-op boards have wide latitude.

The New York Times

Another instance of a wide latitude came just afterward.

The New York Times

In each case, local authorities have wide latitude for enforcement.

The Guardian

In foreign policy, unfortunately, Presidents are given wide latitude.

The New Yorker

Illinois statutes give state officials wide latitude to lobby.

The New York Times

The nonprofit groups have wide latitude in appeals.

The New York Times

Under HUD regulations, the mortgage banks are given wide latitude in arranging 203(k) loans.

The New York Times

While federal law sets the date of the election, states have wide latitude in regulating them.

The New York Times

In exchange for the community's loyalty, politicians have given Brooklyn's Hasidim wide latitude to police themselves.

The New Yorker

States would have wide latitude in choosing how to meet the administration's goals.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To emphasize the positive impact of "wide latitude", follow it with explanations of opportunity for innovation or efficiency.

Common error

Avoid assuming "wide latitude" implies absolute power; it usually operates within certain implicit or explicit boundaries. Don't ignore the context in which the freedom is granted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wide latitude" functions primarily as a noun phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it describes the extent of freedom or discretion granted to someone. Examples show its use in describing the authority of officials or the freedom given to artists.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "wide latitude" is a commonly used noun phrase that denotes a significant degree of freedom or discretion. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently in diverse sources, particularly in news and media. When using "wide latitude", ensure clarity regarding the scope of freedom being conferred. Related phrases include "broad discretion", "ample freedom", and "considerable leeway". Remember that while it suggests considerable freedom, it doesn't always imply complete authority.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broad discretion

Emphasizes the power to make decisions based on one's own judgment.

ample freedom

Highlights the extensive liberty granted to someone.

considerable leeway

Indicates a permissible deviation or allowance for variation.

substantial flexibility

Focuses on the adaptability and pliability within given constraints.

extensive authority

Stresses the breadth of power and control.

significant autonomy

Points to the independence and self-governance afforded.

full rein

Implies unrestricted freedom of action or expression.

free hand

Suggests the liberty to act without restraint or guidance.

open mandate

Highlights the unrestricted authorization to act on behalf of others.

loose constraints

Indicates minimal restrictions or limitations.

FAQs

How can I use "wide latitude" in a sentence?

You can use "wide latitude" to describe situations where someone has a significant amount of freedom or discretion. For example: "The project manager was given "wide latitude" in allocating resources."

What does "wide latitude" mean?

"Wide latitude" refers to a great deal of freedom or flexibility in making decisions or taking actions. It implies a lack of strict constraints or guidelines.

Which is correct: "wide latitude" or "wide range"?

Both phrases are correct, but they have different meanings. "Wide latitude" refers to freedom and discretion, while "wide range" refers to a variety of things. For example, while designers have "wide latitude" in interpreting abstract notions, they can make use of a "wide range" of design techniques to achieve the goal.

What are some alternatives to "wide latitude"?

Alternatives to "wide latitude" include "broad discretion", "ample freedom", or "considerable leeway" depending on the specific context.