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adv B2 Upper-Intermediate Common

broadly

BRAWD-lee

Broadly (adv) means In a general way, without focusing on precise details. Example: “Broadly speaking, the plan has been a success.”

adv
1
In a general way, without focusing on precise details.
"Broadly speaking, the plan has been a success."
2
Widely, or over a large area or range.
"The proposal was broadly welcomed by staff."

How to use broadly

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishIn general terms, or widely — often used to soften a statement before giving a general summary.

Common pairings
broadly speaking broadly similar broadly welcomed

Word forms

more broadly comparative, most broadly superlative

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Test yourself on “broadly” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____ speaking, the plan has been a success.

generally roughly in general terms for the most part

Related words

Rhymes for broadly

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Frequently asked questions

What does “broadly” mean?

The word “broadly” means in a general way, without focusing on precise details. In plain terms, in general terms, or widely — often used to soften a statement before giving a general summary.

How do you pronounce “broadly”?

“Broadly” is pronounced BRAWD-lee (/ˈbɹɔːdli/ in IPA).

How do you use “broadly” in a sentence?

Here is “broadly” used in a sentence: “Broadly speaking, the plan has been a success.”

What part of speech is “broadly”?

“Broadly” is an adverb.

Is “broadly” a common word?

“Broadly” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

How many meanings does “broadly” have?

“Broadly” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in a general way, without focusing on precise details.

What is the difference between "broadly" and "generally"?

"Broadly" means in a general way, without focusing on precise details, and is very close in meaning to "generally." Both words are used to qualify a statement as a general overview rather than an exact or detailed claim, as in "broadly speaking."

Can "broadly" describe a physical area rather than an idea?

Yes, "broadly" can also mean widely, or over a large area or range, as in "the policy applies broadly across the country." This differs from its more common use describing a general, non-detailed way of speaking or thinking.

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