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 a partnership of similar scope, leading tannery Rino Mastrotto Group and the Marzotto Group have revealed the creation of Jacqart — Trame d’Arredo, a company specialized in the production of high-quality jacquard fabrics and velvets. Andrea Onate, Footwear News, 11 July 2025 The next day is more of the same, and a keen reminder that this is Indiana men’s basketball in its scope, and a keen reminder that this is Indiana men’s basketball in the fitful stages of transition, all at once. Brian Hamilton, New York Times, 11 July 2025 This summit is unusually narrow in scope: five nations — Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania and Senegal — were invited, notably excluding regional heavyweights like Nigeria or South Africa. Yohann Ripert, The Orlando Sentinel, 10 July 2025 Water tank project removed A plan for a replacement water storage tank in La Jolla that has changed in scope several times over the past decade has changed again — so much so that it was removed from the city budget as a capital project. Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for scope
Recent Examples of Synonyms for scope
Noun
  • For much of the public, the full extent of the destruction does not yet seem to have sunk in, partly because the military censor has prohibited publishing the location of direct hits.
    Gershom Gorenberg, The Atlantic, 11 July 2025
  • While the measure was discussed to some extent on that May date, specifics regarding the measure weren’t known until months later.
    Thomas Gounley, Denver Post, 10 July 2025
Noun
  • The Dreck Equation is an appeal to policymakers to recognize that unwarranted regulation of every sort, not just notice and comment but realms beyond can sacrifice startups, employment and wealth creation.
    Clyde Wayne Crews Jr, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • Spoelstra said a fourth-year leap with the 6-foot-10 forward certainly is within the realm.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 13 July 2025
Noun
  • What’s more, China is deploying surface-to-surface missiles of sufficient range and number to destroy American bases in Guam, the Philippines, and Japan.
    Dexter Filkins, New Yorker, 14 July 2025
  • Ultium Cells Spring Hill began production in April 2024 producing only nickel cobalt manganese aluminum batteries, which has allowed GM to produce vehicles capable of exceeding 300 miles of range on a charge.
    Jackie Charniga, Freep.com, 14 July 2025
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

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Cite this Entry

“Scope.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/scope. Accessed 26 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on scope

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