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verb B2 Upper-Intermediate Uncommon

broaden

BRAW-dn

Broaden (verb) means to make or become wider, more extensive, or more inclusive. Example: “Traveling really broadened her outlook on life.”

verb
1
To make or become wider, more extensive, or more inclusive.
"Traveling really broadened her outlook on life."
"The company plans to broaden its product range next year."

How to use broaden

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo make something wider or more far-reaching, often used for knowledge, experience, or scope.

Common pairings
broaden your horizons broaden your perspective broaden the scope

Word forms

broadened past tense, Broadens plural, broadens singular

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Traveling really _____ her outlook on life.

Etymology

From broad + the verb-forming suffix -en, following the same pattern as words like "widen" and "deepen."

extend widen diversify branch out

Related words

Rhymes for broaden

See all rhymes for broaden →

Frequently asked questions

What does “broaden” mean?

The word “broaden” means to make or become wider, more extensive, or more inclusive. In plain terms, to make something wider or more far-reaching, often used for knowledge, experience, or scope.

How do you pronounce “broaden”?

“Broaden” is pronounced BRAW-dn ([ˈbɹɔː.dn̩] in IPA).

How do you use “broaden” in a sentence?

Here is “broaden” used in a sentence: “Traveling really broadened her outlook on life.”

What part of speech is “broaden”?

“Broaden” is a verb.

Is “broaden” a common word?

“Broaden” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial