wider argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wider argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a broader context or perspective related to a specific topic or issue. Example: "In order to understand the implications of this study, we must consider the wider argument surrounding climate change and its effects on global policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

The wider argument is plain wrong.

The Economist

So Miliband and Balls are making a wider argument.

The Guardian

It gave Miliband a bridgehead into his wider argument about who will prosper from the recovery.

The Guardian - Opinion

Farron also makes a wider argument for politicians to do more about the housing crisis in the UK.

The Guardian

As regards the wider argument: "I think I know what tragedy is, what pain is, what sorrow is.

The Guardian - Film

The fuss about stem cells may have been prompted by abortion, but it has led into a much wider argument about cloning.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

The wider arguments have not been heard".

The Guardian

And there are wider arguments about how SNTs are used too.

The Guardian - Opinion

And while the game itself deserves a lot of that criticism, it has also become a focus point for the wider arguments around free-to-play gaming.

The Guardian - Tech

Debate over the role of Woodward came to symbolise the wider arguments across the sporting landscape about the role of the BOA.

The Guardian - Sport

Some of those people's concerns about YouTube tie in to their wider arguments with Google over its copyright policies, though.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "wider argument", ensure the scope of the argument is genuinely broader than the specific issue at hand. Avoid using it simply as a synonym for 'important argument'.

Common error

Avoid using "wider argument" if the argument only has tangential relevance to the main point. The connection should be clear and significant, not merely a slight expansion of the topic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wider argument" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "wider" modifies the noun "argument". It indicates that the argument being presented encompasses a broader scope or perspective. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, which show the phrase used to introduce broader contexts related to specific topics.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "wider argument" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to introduce a broader context or perspective related to a specific topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently used in news and media, as well as in scientific discussions. While interchangeable with alternatives like "broader perspective" or "larger context", it's important to ensure the "wider argument" is genuinely relevant and not just a tangential expansion of the main point. Utilizing this phrase effectively can significantly enhance the depth and clarity of your writing by providing a more comprehensive understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wider perspective

Synonymous with "broader perspective", but slightly different word choice.

broader context

Synonymous with "larger context", but slightly different word choice.

broader perspective

Focuses on the viewpoint or outlook being more extensive.

larger context

Emphasizes the surrounding circumstances or background being more encompassing.

more extensive claim

Highlights that the assertion or statement is wider in scope.

expansive viewpoint

Highlights the breadth and reach of the perspective being presented.

more general argument

The argument is not focused on a specific topic or issue, it's more generic.

comprehensive thesis

Focuses on the completeness and thoroughness of the central argument.

more inclusive rationale

The rationale is not exclusive.

overarching narrative

Implies a dominant story or explanation that encompasses smaller details.

FAQs

How can I use "wider argument" in a sentence?

You can use "wider argument" to introduce a broader perspective related to a specific topic. For example, "The shadow chancellor will put his argument for a housing stimulus in the context of a "wider argument" that Osborne's 'plan A' is not working."

What phrases can I use instead of "wider argument"?

Alternatives to "wider argument" include "broader perspective", "larger context", or "more extensive claim" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always necessary to present a "wider argument"?

No, presenting a "wider argument" is only necessary when the immediate topic requires a broader context for full understanding or to strengthen the core claim. Sometimes focusing on the specific details is more effective.

What's the difference between a "wider argument" and a "general argument"?

A "wider argument" expands the scope of a specific issue, while a "more general argument" applies to a broader category of issues or concepts. The "wider argument" builds upon a specific foundation, while the "general argument" may lack such a direct connection.