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 Among the parts of the plan that Trump has carried out is its recommendation to aggressively reduce the size and scope of the federal government. Connor Greene, Time, 3 Oct. 2025 The judge’s early rulings suggest that Combs’s sentencing may reflect the full scope of the trial’s revelations. Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025 Specifically, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission will license fusion projects under the limited scope of its existing byproduct materials framework. Jordan Blum, Fortune, 2 Oct. 2025 British reports said it would initially be used only for employment verification, though its scope could be expanded. Caitlin McFall, FOXNews.com, 2 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for scope
Recent Examples of Synonyms for scope
Noun
  • Additionally, only acts reported through police reports are counted in data collection examining discrimination against Jews, meaning the methodology may underestimate the true extent of antisemitism, according to the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy.
    Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 7 Oct. 2025
  • Levels like the oil rig Blackheart are just a circle, but one route around must be jumped across like a trampoline park — that’s the extent of creativity for many.
    Christopher Cruz, Rolling Stone, 7 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Amid a complex international scenario, White Milano organizers continue to look beyond the realm of the traditional trade show paradigm, strengthening its partnership with Middle East buyers and brands.
    Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 1 Oct. 2025
  • This month invites you into the realms of emotional mastery and deep inner work.
    Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Hogle Zoo always offers a range of special October events for spooky season, and Snowbird’s annual Oktoberfest features live music, family-friendly activities, traditional Bavarian food, and more than 50 varieties of beer for the grownups.
    Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 4 Oct. 2025
  • The all-inclusive resort is ideal for families and offers a range of all-day activities, including watersports such as kayaking and windsurfing, as well as unique classes like trapeze and archery.
    Essence, Essence, 3 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • That precision is like measuring the distance between the North and South poles to better than the width of a single hair.
    Dipangkar Dutta, The Conversation, 3 Oct. 2025
  • Added to which, wing-backs Alejandro Grimaldo and Frimpong, the latter now with Wirtz at Anfield, were an incredibly dynamic threat, stretching opponents across the full width of the pitch but playing with enough individual variety to pose a range of different questions.
    Andy Jones, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Scope.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/scope. Accessed 9 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on scope

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