across the board

1 of 2

phrase

: so as to include or affect all classes or categories

cut spending across the board

also : in all areas or respects

considered an average player across the board

across-the-board

2 of 2

adjective

ə-ˈkrȯs-ṯẖə-ˈbȯrd 

1

: placed to win if a competitor wins, places, or shows

an across-the-board racing bet

2

: embracing or affecting all classes or categories : blanket

an across-the-board price increase

Synonyms of across the board

Adjective

• general
• overall
• generic
• universal
• common
• broad

Examples of across the board in a Sentence

Adjective

an across-the-board reduction in the state's budget because of declining revenues

Recent Examples on the Web

Phrase

That’s a nightmarish output compared to the 87 catches, 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns from his rookie season in 2024, especially as the Jaguars’ offense improved across the board around him. — The Athletic Nfl Staff, New York Times, 20 July 2026

Without action, the old age retirement system will become insolvent sometime in 2032, just six years from now, threatening a 22% across the board cut in benefits. — Howard Gleckman, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026

Adjective

The administration turned to a temporary 10% across-the-board tariff on most trading partners, but on Friday those expired. — Christine Romans, NBC news, 25 July 2026

Those across-the-board cuts will happen only if nothing is done. — Daniel De Visé, USA Today, 22 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Phrase

1946, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1945, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for across the board

• particleboard
• phonorecord
• underinsured
• abhorred
• aboard
• accord
• adored
• afford
• award
• baseboard
• billboard
• blackboard