What does “It’s as broad as it’s long.” mean?
"It's as broad as it's long" means that two alternatives or choices are equal, and the result of choosing one over the other will have the same outcome. It is often used to express that there is no real advantage in choosing one option over the other.
What context can I use the in?
Example
Whether we take the bus or walk, it's all the same. It’s as broad as it’s long.
Example
Should we go left or right? It doesn't matter, it’s as broad as it’s long.
Example
I can't decide between the blue or red shirt. Either way, *it’s as broad as it’s long.
Is “It’s as broad as it’s long.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“It’s as broad as it’s long.” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “It’s as broad as it’s long.” effectively in context?
You can use "It's as broad as it's long" to convey that the outcome or result will be the same, regardless of the choice or action taken. It emphasizes that there is no difference between the options being considered. For example, if someone is debating between two job offers, you might say, 'It doesn't matter which one you choose, "it's as broad as it's long". The end result will be the same.'
- 1Decision Making
Whether you choose option A or option B, it's as broad as it's long. The end result will be the same.
- 2Debating
There's no point in debating between the two options. It's as broad as it's long. The result will be the same either way.
- 3Comparing Choices
No matter what decision you make, it's as broad as it's long. The outcome will be identical.
Similar phrases to “It’s as broad as it’s long.”:
Used to express that two things are essentially the same or have no significant difference
Example
Whether you choose the red shirt or the blue shirt, same difference. They both look good on you.
Tomato, tomato
Used to express that two things are essentially the same or have no significant difference, despite different pronunciations
Example
Whether you say 'tomato' or 'tomato', tomato, tomato. It's the same thing.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “It’s as broad as it’s long.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "It's as broad as it's long" is unknown.
Is “It’s as broad as it’s long.” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "It's as broad as it's long" is not very common in everyday conversation. It is more often used in formal or literary contexts to express the idea that there is no difference between the options being considered.
What tone does “It’s as broad as it’s long.” have?
"It's as broad as it's long" conveys a tone of finality and inevitability. It suggests that no matter what choice is made or action is taken, the outcome will be the same.
Can “It’s as broad as it’s long.” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "It's as broad as it's long" is more commonly used in formal settings or in writing, such as essays, articles, or speeches. It is less frequently used in casual or informal conversations.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
The phrase "It's as broad as it's long" is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'No matter what decision you make, "it's as broad as it's long". The outcome will be identical.' However, in some cases, it can be understood even if used alone, like saying 'Well, "it's as broad as it's long".' to imply that there is no difference between the options.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- equivalent
- indistinguishable
- no difference
- same outcome
- no variation
Antonyms
- variety
- significant difference
- distinct outcome
- diverse options
- contrasting results
