scope

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 In other words, the show approaches its concept with the scope of an epic novel (which makes sense, as it's based on a beloved series of novels). Declan Gallagher, EW.com, 3 July 2025 Ryan said the city’s legislative agenda is large in scope and signing a contract with another lobbyist would allow for specific focus on ESD legislation. Mason Rouser, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 But documents reviewed by IndyStar reveal a project larger in scope than any previous downtown project. John Tuohy, IndyStar, 2 July 2025 Elevate is committed to reducing absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 46.2 percent by 2030 from a 2019 base year. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 1 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for scope
Recent Examples of Synonyms for scope
Noun
  • All in all, with that many golfers dominating the Detroit Golf Club to this extent, the door is wide open for someone to make a move up the leaderboard and take home the PGA Tour event win on Sunday.
    Kilty Cleary, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 June 2025
  • That pact will inspire confidence and make peace to the extent that all signatories and other affected parties (including Israel) still trust in international law and legitimacy.
    Andreas Kluth, Mercury News, 28 June 2025
Noun
  • Thoughts: The Peril Of Cognitive Offloading And Distorted Reality The realm of thought is particularly susceptible to the negative feedback loops generated by generative AI.
    Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
  • The powers of their music uplifts the human spirit, generating a shielding force field that prevents the demonic realm from invading.
    EW.com, EW.com, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • Part-time employees at The Pad Climbing range from three to 30 hours per week, which requires an adaptable approach.
    Michelle Travis, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • In addition, the U.S. Global Change Research Program site provided a wide range of educational resources, including interactive webpages, videos and podcasts that explained the far-reaching impacts of climate change in an easy-to-understand manner, even for the public.
    Matthew Glasser, ABC News, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • The twister traveled a total of 8.2 miles with a maximum path width of 800 yards, according to the Weather Service.
    NWA Democrat-Gazette, Arkansas Online, 26 June 2025
  • White sneakers for women with flat feet: Those with flat feet should look for white sneakers with a wide width.
    Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 25 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Scope.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/scope. Accessed 12 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on scope

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