scope

noun

ˈskōp How to pronounce scope (audio)
Definition of scopenext
as in extent
an area over which activity, capacity, or influence extends the company's scope of operations now spans two continents

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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

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 scope Local agencies are developing their own policies on how to carry out their new responsibilities, and the scope of their immigration enforcement activities remains to be seen. —Ryan Gillespie, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 July 2025 Later, Robinson revealed the full scope of his scheme, which ended with an AT&T Business commercial that reunited him with his Office costars Ellie Kemper, Angela Kinsey, Creed Bratton and Oscar Nuñez. —Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 27 July 2025 While the image will stay in 2.39:1 ‘scope’ aspect ratio, its high brightness capability (that can reach up to 300 nits), and its ability to offer a truly high dynamic range experience (using Light Steering tech), combined with Dolby Atmos 3D surround sound, is an enticing mix. —Benny Har-Even, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025 That same piece outlined Chelsea as, ludicrously to some, the club with the greatest scope to spend from a PSR perspective. —Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 25 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for scope
Recent Examples of Synonyms for scope
  1. extent
  2. realm
  3. range
  4. width
Noun
  • The report, released Friday, downplayed the extent of Russian interference in the 2016 election by highlighting Obama administration emails showing officials had concluded before and after the presidential race that Moscow had not hacked state election systems to manipulate votes in Trump's favor.
    — Dan Gooding Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 July 2025
  • The two companies have been increasingly competing for eyeballs, particularly on TV screens, and to some extent, talent, over the last twelve months.
    — Peter White, Deadline, 22 July 2025
Definition of extent
Noun
  • In the realm of the visual, the Renaissance umanisti became humanists in our sense, almost by accident: what the painters learned from the past gave them license to enliven their work with faces, bodies, and desires.
    — Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 28 July 2025
  • Gemini Sun & Rising: Gemini, this week Chiron retrograde in Aries begins a five-month healing journey in the realm of your friendships and social alliances.
    — Dossé-Via Trenou, Refinery29, 27 July 2025
Definition of realm
Noun
  • Bose’s first high-profile acquisitions, these high-end audio brands will allow the company to tailor the performance and appearance of its systems to auto brands appealing to a wider range of buyers.
    — Mark Phelan, Freep.com, 27 July 2025
  • Many of the country's best speakers have presented on a wide range of topics, from the best native plants for your garden to in-depth looks at the flora from native ecosystems.
    — Chris McKeown, The Enquirer, 27 July 2025
Definition of range
Noun
  • Forward Beth Mead was summoned in place of Lauren James at half-time, and offered more width and drive; James had been guilty of taking too many touches and slowing England down.
    — Michael Cox, New York Times, 23 July 2025
  • In terms of aesthetics, many recommend that your soundbar should be roughly the same width as your TV to prevent it from standing out, or at least less wide.
    — BestReviews, Mercury News, 22 July 2025
Definition of width

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Scope.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/scope. Accessed 2 Aug. 2025.

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