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wide

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adverb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word wide different from other adjectives like it?

The words broad and deep are common synonyms of wide. While all three words mean "having horizontal extent," 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

In what contexts can broad take the place of wide?

Although the words broad and wide have much in common, broad is preferred when full horizontal extent is considered.

broad shoulders

When is deep a more appropriate choice than wide?

In some situations, the words deep and wide are roughly equivalent. However, deep may indicate horizontal extent away from the observer or from a front or peripheral point.

a deep cupboard
deep woods

Examples of wide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Adjective
Instead, the war is a jumping-off point for wider, exploratory narratives, and themes different to those in traditional programs. Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 15 Oct. 2024 Jennifer Lawrence, Gwyneth Paltrow, Laura Dern, and Heidi Klum have also brought out the classic layer this year, showcasing their truly wide scope. Alyssa Grabinski, People.com, 15 Oct. 2024
Adverb
Moore came in behind the clear-out from the opposite side on an over route and was wide open in a confused Carolina secondary for an easy touchdown to tie the score at 7-7. Brad Biggs, Chicago Tribune, 7 Oct. 2024 But after a dramatic day of football, there was one more twist in the tale as Evan McPherson’s attempt sailed wide left and the game went on. Ben Morse, CNN, 7 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for wide 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'wide.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near wide

Cite this Entry

“Wide.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wide. Accessed 21 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on wide

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