# broadly

/ˈbɹɔdɫi/ (US) · /bɹˈɔːdli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/broadly
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. generally speaking

adverb · CEFR B2

used to say that something is true in a general way, without looking at small details.

For teachers: in a general or non-specific sense; used to indicate that a statement is true in most cases or in its main aspects.

- Broadly speaking, the new law has been popular with the public.
- Broadly defined, the term encompasses a wide range of artistic practices that emerged during the late twentieth century.

Usage: often used at the start of a sentence to introduce a generalisation.

### 2. widely or openly

adverb · CEFR B2

in a way that is wide, open, or very clear.

For teachers: in a wide or open manner; frequently used to describe facial expressions or physical distribution.

- He smiled broadly when he saw his old friend at the airport.
- The candidate grinned broadly at the cameras, projecting an image of confidence despite the narrow margin of her victory.

Usage: commonly collocates with verbs like 'smile' or 'grin'.

## Examples

- Broadly speaking, the two plans are very similar.
- The new law is broadly supported by the public, even though some small groups disagree with specific parts of it.
- While the data shows some minor variations across different regions, the results are broadly consistent with the findings of previous large-scale studies conducted over the last decade.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.