BROAD Synonyms: 209 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 Crain describes the situation as a broader pattern, arguing that the city has favored new development over maintaining historic and cultural sites. —

Amelia Mugavero, CBS News, 19 May 2026 The shift is part of a broader reorganization that is expected to be announced Wednesday, which will include layoffs affecting 10% of the company. —

Emily Lorsch, NBC news, 19 May 2026 Deployment at Kia’s Georgia plant is planned for 2029 as part of the broader robotics expansion strategy, reports YNA. —

Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 19 May 2026 The broader report examined consumer attitudes toward fast food, casual dining and specialty restaurant brands. —

Peter Burke, FOXNews.com, 19 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for broad

Recent Examples of Synonyms for broad

Adjective

Elijah, however, didn’t account for his wide stance.

— Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 15 May 2026
The company called for tighter export controls, stronger protections against technology theft, and wider adoption of American AI systems across allied markets.

— Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 14 May 2026