Synonyms of scope

scope

noun

ˈskōp 

as in extent

an area over which activity, capacity, or influence extends

the company's scope of operations now spans two continents

Synonyms & Similar Words

• extent
• realm
• confines
• range
• width
• reach
• breadth
• spectrum
• ambit
• amplitude
• compass
• sweep
• dimension(s)
• domain
• sphere
• circle
• field
• gamut
• element
• region
• department
• province
• discipline
• specialty
• spread
• terrain
• horizon
• frontier
• panorama
• bailiwick
• fief
• fiefdom
• demesne

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

Recent Examples of scope

Local agencies are developing their own policies on how to carry out their new responsibilities, and the scope of their immigration enforcement activities remains to be seen. —Ryan Gillespie, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 July 2025

Later, Robinson revealed the full scope of his scheme, which ended with an AT&T Business commercial that reunited him with his Office costars Ellie Kemper, Angela Kinsey, Creed Bratton and Oscar Nuñez. —Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 27 July 2025

While the image will stay in 2.39:1 ‘scope’ aspect ratio, its high brightness capability (that can reach up to 300 nits), and its ability to offer a truly high dynamic range experience (using Light Steering tech), combined with Dolby Atmos 3D surround sound, is an enticing mix. —Benny Har-Even, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025

That same piece outlined Chelsea as, ludicrously to some, the club with the greatest scope to spend from a PSR perspective. —Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 25 July 2025