BROAD Synonyms: 209 Similar and Opposite Words

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

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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

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as in obvious

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

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as in general

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

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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 However, the recent bankruptcy of 23andme, which put the DNA of the company’s 15 million customers at risk, is a reminder that these questions have far broader implications. —

Spencer Cox, Time, 4 Apr. 2025 Share prices fell for a second day on Friday in Asia and Europe, and futures market trading indicated that U.S. share prices might soon slip further as well, as worries persisted about the economic effect of President Trump’s broad tariffs. —

Keith Bradsher, New York Times, 4 Apr. 2025 Nathan was diagnosed with Asperger's -- part of a broader diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder, which can lead to difficulty with social interactions and communication skills. —

Audrey Karnan, ABC News, 4 Apr. 2025 Therefore, substantial reductions in SNAP funding may have broader economic implications beyond the immediate loss of assistance to individuals. —

Solange Charas, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for broad

Recent Examples of Synonyms for broad

Adjective

Founded by her grandfather 75 years ago, Klem's sells a wide range of products including hardware, pet food and clothes.

— Alina Selyukh, NPR, 7 Apr. 2025
In February 2023, the company sent a wide email to all customers extending the maximum fade duration to three years and offering refunds if a tattoo outlasts that time frame.

— Alyssa Goldberg, USA Today, 7 Apr. 2025