Definition of broadnext
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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

Example 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 Powell said in the note that Palo Alto has the broadest cybersecurity offering, and thinks the company can sustain mid-teens revenue growth over the next few years. Davis Giangiulio, CNBC, 4 July 2026 Respondents expressed broad willingness to share everyday experiences across the political divide. Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 4 July 2026 The president has elevated MAGA-friendly election deniers into the federal government, sicced the Justice Department on his political enemies, and drafted multiple agencies into his relentless hunt to substantiate his broad claims of voter fraud. Toluse Olorunnipa, The Atlantic, 4 July 2026 The introduction of the J-15T reflects China’s broader effort to modernize its carrier aviation capabilities. Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for broad
Recent Examples of Synonyms for broad
Adjective
  • Members love Thrive Market's wide selection of high-quality products and speedy shipping.
    Rachel Cortez, USA Today, 4 July 2026
  • Pélisson previously told Variety that animation and co-productions have become key drivers of French content’s appeal abroad, reflecting the sector’s ability to travel across borders and reach a wide range of audiences.
    Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 3 July 2026
Adjective
  • Barrett and Jackson each reported the most extensive travel of court justices promoting their books in 2025.
    Maureen Groppe, USA Today, 30 June 2026
  • Just south of the circle, subsequent construction of the Icon Miami complex, though, destroyed extensive additional evidence of Tequesta occupation in the bedrock, including scores of holes likely dug for wooden dwelling support posts.
    Andres Viglucci, Miami Herald, 30 June 2026
Adjective
  • The teenage phenom is able to complement his obvious technical skills with a flair and maturity in high-pressure situations that is well beyond his years.
    Ashley Mowreader, NBC news, 3 July 2026
  • This was most obvious during Swift's record-breaking Eras Tour, when brands capitalized on all things Taylor — friendship bracelets, themed drinks and even concert outfits.
    Lauryn Overhultz, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026
Adjective
  • Little’s lack of response to a possible return that offseason resulted in general manager Ned Colletti pursuing other options.
    Liana Handler, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026
  • While unions secured general salary increases last year to offset the salary reductions associated with the leave program, the agreements did not include similar increases in July 2026.
    William Melhado, Sacbee.com, 1 July 2026
Adjective
  • Ezra Jin, the founder of Zion Church, was among dozens of members caught up in a sweeping crackdown by Chinese authorities late last year.
    Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 5 July 2026
  • His use of the presidency’s sweeping ability to unilaterally grant pardons and commute sentences is among the ways the Republican’s return to office has featured an expansive use of executive power.
    Michelle L. Price, Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2026
Adjective
  • This band may have created millions of fans, but its influence on the 80s rock music is unmistakable.
    Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 June 2026
  • The warning delivered by this year’s primaries is unmistakable.
    Bobby Zirkin, Baltimore Sun, 29 June 2026
Adjective
  • Margarine naturally contains essential fatty acids, which are important for cell function and overall health.
    Daryl Austin, USA Today, 25 June 2026
  • That film, starring David Corenswet as the Man of Steel, ignited to $125 million and ended its run with $618 million, a promising enough tally amid the overall decline of comic book adaptations.
    Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 24 June 2026
Adjective
  • The arils are deep ruby-red in color and have a sweet yet slightly tart flavor that many people find refreshing.
    Daryl Austin, USA Today, 2 July 2026
  • Facing intense competition, Accor recognized the need for deeper customer retention and advocacy.
    Jeff Fromm, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Broad.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/broad. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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