Broaden vs. expand: what’s the difference?
The short answer
Broaden often suggests increasing scope or range, often in terms of abstract concepts like horizons, understanding, or experience. Expand can refer to both physical enlargement and abstract growth or development, such as expanding a business or an idea.
What they have in common
Both broaden and expand imply an increase or growth in size, scope, or range. They can be used metaphorically or literally to describe making something larger or more comprehensive.
Examples
broaden
- Traveling can broaden your horizons.
- The course aims to broaden students’ understanding of world cultures.
expand
- The company plans to expand its product line.
- As her interest grew, she decided to expand her knowledge on the subject.
Which one is more common?
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