Broaden – Meaning, Definition, Synonyms and Antonyms

Overview

Broaden (Verb) means to make or become wider, larger, or more open. It highlights growth, expansion, and development, especially in knowledge, opportunities, or horizons. The word Broaden refers to making something wider, larger, or more extensive.

It also signifies expanding knowledge, experiences, or perspectives. In this guide, you’ll explore Broaden meaning, definition, examples, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and FAQs to fully understand the word.

Broaden Explained in Depth

A complete and detailed guide to the word Broaden, including its meaning, usage, and related vocabulary in personal, professional, and social contexts.

Meanings of Broaden

Broaden describes the action of expanding something physically or figuratively. It can mean making roads, areas, or spaces wider, but it is also used to talk about expanding minds, skills, or opportunities.

Definition

Broaden means to make something wider or more extensive, or to expand knowledge, experiences, or opportunities. For example, traveling can broaden your perspective, and education can broaden your knowledge. The word conveys growth, openness, and development.

Etymology

The word “broaden” comes from the adjective “broad,” meaning wide or large, with the suffix “-en” forming a verb. It originated in the 18th century to describe the act of making something broader or wider, both physically and metaphorically.

Example Sentences

  • Traveling abroad can broaden your understanding of different cultures.
  • The company plans to broaden its services to reach new markets.
  • Reading books regularly helps broaden one’s vocabulary and thinking.
  • The school introduced new programs to broaden students’ career choices.
  • Volunteering can broaden your life experiences and social connections.

Broaden Synonyms

  • Expand
  • Widen
  • Enlarge
  • Extend
  • Increase
  • Open up
  • Stretch
  • Develop
  • Augment
  • Grow

Broaden Antonyms

  • Narrow
  • Reduce
  • Limit
  • Restrict
  • Contract
  • Condense
  • Confine
  • Shrink
  • Decrease
  • Compress

FAQs about Broaden

1. What does Broaden mean in simple words?

It means to make something wider or to expand knowledge or opportunities.

2. Can Broaden be used for ideas and skills?

Yes. It is often used to describe expanding perspectives, skills, and experiences.

3. Is Broaden a positive word?

Yes. It usually implies growth, openness, and improvement.

4. What is the opposite of Broaden?

Opposites include narrow, restrict, limit, or reduce.

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