Translation guide
The English adverb 'broadly' can express a general or wide-ranging manner, a physical width, or a figurative sense of openness. This guide helps learners choose natural Japanese expressions depending on the intended meaning.
Expressing that something is true or applies in a general sense, without focusing on details.
The adverbial form of 広い (wide). Used to mean 'widely' or 'broadly' in the sense of covering a large scope or many areas.
This issue is broadly discussed.
His works are broadly known.
Means 'roughly' or 'broadly' when giving a general outline or summary. Often used when you want to describe something without going into detail.
Broadly speaking, the plan is going well.
A slightly formal adverb meaning 'generally' or 'on the whole'. Used to make broad statements.
Broadly, this summer was cool.
Means 'overall' or 'broadly' in the sense of covering all aspects. Common in both spoken and written Japanese.
Broadly viewed, the results are good.
Describing something that is physically broad or wide in shape or extent.
Expressing that an action is done in an open, unrestrained, or obvious manner.
Means 'openly' or 'blatantly', often with a negative connotation. Used when someone does something without hiding it.
He broadly lied.
Means 'openly' or 'undisguisedly', often implying something is done in a crude or tactless way.
She broadly expressed her dissatisfaction.
Describing a wide, cheerful smile.
An onomatopoeic adverb for a broad, pleasant smile. Very common.
He smiled broadly.
Literally 'with a full-face smile'. A more descriptive phrase for a broad smile.
She greeted me with a broad smile.
広く (hiroku) emphasizes wide coverage or prevalence, while 大まかに (ōmaka ni) emphasizes a rough, non-detailed approach. Use 広く for 'widely known' and 大まかに for 'broadly speaking'.
This book is broadly read.
Please explain broadly.