BROADER 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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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 For musicians, playing these sporting events gets them in front of broader audiences that may come outside of their core fanbase. —

Ethan Millman, HollywoodReporter, 31 Mar. 2026 This modern pickle renaissance reflects a broader trend of culinary exploration, combining nostalgia with innovation to solidify pickles as a beloved staple of contemporary American culture. —

Literary Hub, 31 Mar. 2026 Both economists cautioned against drawing too direct a line from JOLTS to payrolls, but the broader picture is getting harder to wave away. —

Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 31 Mar. 2026 This division of roles reflects a broader trend in the emerging Physical AI ecosystem. —

Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 31 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for broad

Recent Examples of Synonyms for broad

Adjective

The Shah’s Western orientation extended to culture, and a wide range of artistically important international films could be seen in Tehran, in time including those of the French New Wave.

— Richard Brody, New Yorker, 27 Mar. 2026
Children ages 5 to 14 can participate in a wide variety of free recreational, educational and social activities, including sports, games, and arts and crafts, according to a news release.

— Mike Danahey, Chicago Tribune, 26 Mar. 2026