BROAD Synonyms: 209 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'broad' different from other adjectives like it?

The words deep and wide are common synonyms of broad . While all three words mean "having horizontal extent," broad is preferred when full horizontal extent is considered. // broad shoulders

Q: Where would 'deep' be a reasonable alternative to 'broad'?

The synonyms deep and broad are sometimes interchangeable, but deep may indicate horizontal extent away from the observer or from a front or peripheral point. // a deep cupboard // deep woods

Q: When could 'wide' be used to replace 'broad'?

The words wide and broad are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, wide is more common when units of measurement are mentioned, or when applied to unfilled space between limits. // rugs eight feet wide // a wide doorway

broad

adjective

ˈbrȯd

Definition of broad next

as in wide

having a greater than usual measure across an unusually broad expanse of water in the island-dotted lake

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in extensive

having considerable extent her broad knowledge of American politics makes her a much-sought-after guest on talk shows

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in obvious

not subject to misinterpretation or more than one interpretation gave them a broad hint that it was time to leave

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in general

relating to the main elements and not to specific details a broad overview of the topic

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word broad different from other adjectives like it?

The words deep and wide are common synonyms of broad. While all three words mean "having horizontal extent," broad is preferred when full horizontal extent is considered.

broad shoulders

Where would deep be a reasonable alternative to broad?

The synonyms deep and broad are sometimes interchangeable, but deep may indicate horizontal extent away from the observer or from a front or peripheral point.

a deep cupboard

deep woods

When could wide be used to replace broad?

The words wide and broad are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, wide is more common when units of measurement are mentioned, or when applied to unfilled space between limits.

rugs eight feet wide

a wide doorway

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 broad The inclusion of these sports figures is part of a broader initiative to infuse varied perspectives into the franchise’s leadership. —

Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 12 Dec. 2024 Poor sleep can also cause broader institutional problems; a community where no one is adequately rested may be more likely to have conflicts and fights. —

Keri Blakinger, Los Angeles Times, 12 Dec. 2024 Through these gatherings a broader argument began cohering: men faced systematic and fundamental discrimination in a changing world. —

Theresa Iker / Made By History, TIME, 12 Dec. 2024 That image has now been lauded by some as a symbol of the broader systemic frustrations with the U.S. health care system that have dominated social media since a gunman brazenly assassinated Thompson, a 50-year-old father of two, outside a New York City hotel in daylight. —

Kalhan Rosenblatt, NBC News, 12 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for broad

Recent Examples of Synonyms for broad

Adjective

Does the judge's ruling have wider implications for the case against Trump and 18 others?

Josh Meyer, USA TODAY, 13 Dec. 2024
The brand targets a wide range of women, from teenagers to those who are middle-aged.

David Moin, WWD, 13 Dec. 2024