widely

[wahyd-lee]

adverb

1. to a wide extent.

2. over a wide space or area.

   a widely distributed plant.

3. by or among a large number of persons.

   a widely known artist.

4. in many or various subjects, cases, etc..

   to be widely read.

5. greatly, very much, or very.

   widely differing accounts of an event.

Word History and Origins

Origin of widely¹

First recorded in 1655–65; wide + -ly

Example Sentences

Southgate has been widely lauded for fostering a better culture and atmosphere inside the squad, with players seeming to get on better no matter who they play for.

From BBC

Its figures are widely accepted by the United Nations and other international bodies as being accurate.

From BBC

However, AI is also being widely used in the same sectors.

From BBC

The drummer and lyricist for beloved Canadian hard-rock trio Rush was widely considered one of rock’s most skilled instrumentalists.

From Los Angeles Times

Tanzanian police have warned against the use of social media to spread misinformation following a widely shared video of an alleged military officer criticising the government, three weeks ahead of general elections.

From BBC

Related Words

• broadly 
• commonly 
• generally 
• universally