scope

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun scope differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of scope are compass, gamut, orbit, range, and sweep. While all these words mean "the extent that lies within the powers of something (as to cover or control)," scope is applicable to an area of activity, predetermined and limited, but somewhat flexible.

as time went on, the scope of the investigation widened

In what contexts can compass take the place of scope?

The words compass and scope are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, compass implies a sometimes limited extent of perception, knowledge, or activity.

your concerns lie beyond the narrow compass of this study

When could gamut be used to replace scope?

The meanings of gamut and scope largely overlap; however, gamut suggests a graduated series running from one possible extreme to another.

a performance that ran the gamut of emotions

When can orbit be used instead of scope?

While in some cases nearly identical to scope, orbit suggests an often circumscribed range of activity or influence within which forces work toward accommodation.

within that restricted orbit they tried to effect social change

When is range a more appropriate choice than scope?

While the synonyms range and scope are close in meaning, range is a general term indicating the extent of one's perception or the extent of powers, capacities, or possibilities.

the entire range of human experience

Where would sweep be a reasonable alternative to scope?

In some situations, the words sweep and scope are roughly equivalent. However, sweep suggests extent, often circular or arc-shaped, of motion or activity.

the book covers the entire sweep of criminal activity

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of scope The scope of the war is also too large for a simple negotiation between Moscow and Kyiv, experts say. Lauren Kent, CNN, 3 Nov. 2024 Mercury’s entrance to Sagittarius expands the scope and depth of your knowledge on a controversial topic. USA TODAY, 2 Nov. 2024 During the retrial, prosecutors narrowed the scope of the indictment. CBS News, 1 Nov. 2024 Their success hinges on the scope of their mandate and the commitment of firm leadership to enthusiastically support a long-term transformation strategy. Mark A. Cohen, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for scope 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for scope
Noun
  • The city faces a deep political divide on key policy questions, such as the extent to which the large police budget should be preserved over other city services in upcoming budget talks.
    Shomik Mukherjee, The Mercury News, 7 Nov. 2024
  • To the extent that a reader has any questions regarding the applicability of any specific issue discussed above to his/her individual situation, he/she is encouraged to consult with the professional advisor of his/her choosing, including a tax advisor and/or attorney.
    Amy Wagner and Steve Hruby, The Enquirer, 6 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • When conflicts exist outside the U.S. realm, money tends to flow to U.S. Treasurys as a safe-haven investment.
    Sanford Mann, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024
  • Additional carrots for Ukraine are most likely to be found in the economic realm.
    Richard Haass, Foreign Affairs, 4 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Long range competition shooters use them religiously.
    Michael Hanback, Outdoor Life, 7 Nov. 2024
  • Which is why the salon also offers a range of services to help it last: wigs-only highlights, washing, setting, trendy cuts, and dye services, starting at around $250.
    Talia Lavin, Curbed, 7 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Pulse width modulation control further reduces even the most minor rotational inaccuracies, along with any errors in the drive signal.
    Simon Lucas, WIRED, 31 Oct. 2024
  • Each slit’s width should be about a third or a fourth of the distance between the frames.
    Charlotte Hu, Scientific American, 31 Oct. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near scope

Cite this Entry

“Scope.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/scope. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on scope

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