Definition

1. Adverb:
   • Over a large area or range; extensively: "widely" indicates something that is spread out over a great physical distance or across a broad scope.
   • By many people or in many places: "widely" describes something that is common, prevalent, or recognized across a large population or geographical area.
   • To a great degree; considerably: "widely" signifies a large difference or a significant extent.

Examples of Usage

• Over a large area or range:

  • The trees were planted widely apart. (The trees had a large amount of space between them.)
  • The company's products are distributed widely across the continent. (The products are available over a very broad geographical area.)

• By many people or in many places:

  • This theory is widely accepted by scientists. (Most scientists in the field agree with this theory.)
  • She is a widely read author. (Her books are read by people in many different places.)

• To a great degree; considerably:

  • Their opinions on the matter differ widely. (Their opinions are very different from each other.)
  • Prices vary widely from one store to another. (There is a large difference in prices between different stores.)

Advanced Usage

• "Widely regarded as": Commonly considered to be.

  • He is widely regarded as the greatest player of his generation. (He is very commonly considered the best.)

• "Widely available": Easy to find or obtain in many places.

  • This model is now widely available in electronics stores. (You can find this model in many different stores.)

• "Widely publicized": Made known to a very large audience through media or other channels.

  • The scandal was widely publicized in the news. (The news about the scandal reached a very large number of people.)

Variants and Related Words

• Wide (adjective): Having a great extent from side to side; broad.
  • The river is very wide at this point.
• Widen (verb): To make or become wider.
  • The city plans to widen this road next year.

Synonyms

• Extensively: In a way that covers or affects a large area or range.
• Broadly: In a wide manner; generally.
• Far and wide: Over a large area; everywhere.

Related Phrases

• Spread widely: To be distributed over a large area.
  • The news of his resignation spread widely within hours.
• Differ widely: To be very different.
  • The two candidates' policies differ widely on economic issues.

Adverb

1. so as to leave much space or distance between
   • widely separated
2. to or over a great extent or range; far
   • wandered wide through many lands
   • he traveled widely
3. to a great degree
   • her work is widely known