widest meaning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "widest meaning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the broadest interpretation or understanding of a term, concept, or idea. Example: "In the widest meaning of the term, freedom encompasses not only the absence of constraints but also the presence of opportunities."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In a narrow sense, the term fuzzy logic refers to a system of approximate reasoning, but its widest meaning is usually identified with a mathematical theory of classes with unclear, or "fuzzy," boundaries.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

In Farsi, Neda also means "giving voice," implicitly reflecting a wider meaning for both the movement and Farmanfarmaian's art.

The New Yorker

Another way of making biting the bullet more palatable is by arguing that what we mean by any word involves two parts, a "wide" meaning that is understood in terms of something atomistic like reference, and a "narrow" meaning that is closer to something holistic like inferential role (Block 1986 , 1993 1995; Field 1977).

SEP

Mickelson now continually finds his voice has a wider meaning.

The Guardian - Sport

As the court said, "compassionate grounds" is a term with a wide meaning.

The Guardian - Opinion

People have been searching for some wider meaning to the place since its earliest days.

The Economist

The moment we look at how ancient readers understood logos, we see it had a much wider meaning than today.

The Guardian - Opinion

Admirable as it is, Keith's local focus undercuts her ability to fully explore the wider meaning of the massacre.

The New York Times - Books

"Corporation tax applies to 'companies', but for this purpose the term 'company' has a very wide meaning.

The Guardian

TD: There are films that can only be made in a specific country but that have a wider meaning.

The Guardian - Film

In my first article, I complained about what I saw as over-explanation and unsubtle hints about the wider meaning of the novel.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "widest meaning", ensure that the context clearly defines what constitutes the broadest interpretation to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that the "widest meaning" is universally understood; provide specific examples or explanations to clarify its scope.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "widest meaning" primarily functions as a qualifier or descriptor, specifying the scope or extent of a particular term or concept. It is used to indicate that the interpretation being presented is the most inclusive or comprehensive one. Ludwig AI shows this is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "widest meaning" is a qualifier used to indicate the most inclusive or comprehensive interpretation of a term or concept. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While grammatically sound and found in various sources, its frequency is relatively rare. It's commonly used in contexts such as encyclopedias, news articles, and scientific publications to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity. When using the phrase, it's crucial to provide clear context or examples to avoid misunderstandings about the scope of the interpretation. Alternatives like "broadest interpretation" or "most expansive definition" may also be used, depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broadest interpretation

Focuses on the interpretation aspect, suggesting the most inclusive reading of something.

most comprehensive sense

Emphasizes completeness and inclusivity in understanding.

most expansive definition

Highlights the extent of the definition, suggesting it covers a large scope.

fullest extent of the meaning

Stresses the thoroughness and completeness of understanding the meaning.

most inclusive understanding

Focuses on including all possible aspects in the understanding.

largest possible scope

Emphasizes the scope or range of the meaning, suggesting it's very broad.

most general application

Highlights the generality of the meaning, implying it applies in many situations.

overall significance

Shifts focus to the overall importance and relevance of the meaning.

primary implication

Highlights a fundamental and wide-reaching consequence.

overarching theme

Emphasizes that a meaning represents main subject in context.

FAQs

How can I use "widest meaning" in a sentence?

You can use "widest meaning" to refer to the most inclusive or general interpretation of a term or concept. For example: "In its "widest meaning", the term 'sustainability' encompasses economic, social, and environmental dimensions".

What are some alternatives to "widest meaning"?

Some alternatives include "broadest interpretation", "most comprehensive sense", or "most expansive definition". Each of these phrases emphasizes a different aspect of breadth or inclusivity in understanding.

When is it appropriate to use "widest meaning" instead of "broader meaning"?

"Widest meaning" is appropriate when you want to emphasize the most inclusive and general interpretation possible. "Broader meaning" simply suggests a more inclusive interpretation than a narrower one, but not necessarily the most inclusive.

Is "widest meaning" a formal or informal expression?

"Widest meaning" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it is more commonly found in academic, encyclopedic, and news contexts due to its analytical nature.