widely
adv.-
1 by many people or in many places (adv.) B1 Intermediateused to say that something is common or accepted by a large number of people.
indicating that something is generally accepted, known, or practiced by a vast majority or across a broad demographic.
ExampleIt is widely believed that eating vegetables is good for your health.
ExampleThe theory was widely criticized by the scientific community until new evidence emerged to support the original findings.
Usageoften used before a past participle like 'known', 'accepted', or 'used'.
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2 over a large area or distance (adv.) B2 Upper Intermediateacross a large space or with a big gap between things.
over a large spatial extent or with a significant interval between points.
ExampleThe explorers traveled widely across the desert to find the ancient city.
ExampleThe seeds are widely scattered by the wind, ensuring the plant can colonize distant areas of the valley.
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3 to a large degree (adv.) B2 Upper Intermediateby a large amount, especially when comparing two things.
to a great degree or extent; frequently used to intensify differences in comparative contexts.
ExampleThe two brothers have widely different personalities despite being twins.
ExampleOpinions on the new policy vary widely among the staff, ranging from total support to outright rejection.
Usagefrequently modifies comparative adjectives or verbs of variation.
From Middle English wijdly, equivalent to wide + -ly.
- Verbwiden
- Adjectivewide
- Adjectivewidespread
- Adverbwidely