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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 Regardless of the verdict, the initiative sparks broader efforts like planting wildflowers and reducing pesticide use. —

Anne Readel, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 May 2026 Monét has also spoken publicly in recent months about her PCOS diagnosis, using interviews and social media posts to encourage broader conversations around women’s health awareness. —

Okla Jones, Essence, 12 May 2026 East's study focuses on the labor market, but that's only one part of the broader economic picture. —

Greg Rosalsky, NPR, 12 May 2026 Researchers also say the old terminology overlooked the condition’s broader impacts on metabolism, cardiovascular health, skin conditions and mental health. —

Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 12 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