What does broaden mean?
Broaden is a transitive and intransitive verb meaning to make something wider or more extensive, or to become so. In its literal sense, it describes physical widening, as when a river or road broadens. More often, however, it is used figuratively to describe expansion of range, scope, or understanding: one might broaden one's knowledge, broaden the scope of an inquiry, or broaden the appeal of a product. The word carries a generally positive connotation, suggesting growth, openness, and enrichment rather than mere increase in size. Common collocations include "broaden one's horizons," "broaden the debate," and "broaden one's experience." Derived from the adjective "broad" by addition of the suffix "-en," it belongs to a productive class of English verbs that convert adjectives into verbs of change (compare "widen," "deepen," "shorten"). Its versatility across literal and figurative contexts makes it a useful word for describing both physical change and intellectual development.
verbTo make something wider or more extensive, or to become wider or more extensive; to expand the range, scope, or variety of something such as knowledge, experience, or appeal.
- To make something wider or more extensive (transitive).
- To become wider or more extensive (intransitive).
- To expand the range, scope, or variety of something such as knowledge, experience, interests, or appeal.
- To make something more inclusive or tolerant in outlook or attitude.
"Traveling through Southeast Asia broadened her understanding of the region's history."
"The road broadens into a dual carriageway just past the village."
"Studying abroad can significantly broaden your perspective on global issues."
"Broaden your horizons" is one of the most enduring pieces of advice in English — a phrase so old it predates the airplane, the passport, and the package holiday by centuries.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of broaden
Broaden was formed in English from the adjective "broad," which derives from Old English "brād," meaning wide or extended. The suffix "-en" was added to create a verb meaning to make or become broad, following a productive pattern in English that also produced "widen," "deepen," and "lengthen." The verb is attested from around the late sixteenth century. Cognates of the root adjective include Old Frisian "brēd" and German "breit," all tracing back to Proto-Germanic origins.
How broaden is actually used
"Broaden" is neutral in register and works equally well in formal writing and everyday speech. It carries a positive connotation when used figuratively — suggesting growth, openness, or enrichment. It is commonly used with abstract objects like "horizons," "scope," "appeal," "knowledge," "experience," and "outlook." The verb is often used reflexively in the sense of personal growth ("to broaden oneself").
Easily confused with broaden
"Board" is a noun or verb referring to a flat piece of wood or getting onto a vehicle, while "broaden" is a verb meaning to make wider or more extensive.