What does “Far and wide” mean?
The phrase "far and wide" means 'everywhere' or 'in all directions.' When someone uses "far and wide", they are emphasizing the extensive reach or coverage of something, similar to saying 'all over the place' or 'in every corner.'
How is the expression used in real life?
Learn when and how to use these expressions with these examples!
Example
I searched far and wide for my lost keys.
I searched far and wide for my lost keys.
Example
News of the concert spread far and wide.
News of the concert spread far and wide.
Example
They traveled far and wide to find the best surfing spots.
They traveled far and wide to find the best surfing spots.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Describing a search or exploration
I searched far and wide for my lost keys.
I searched far and wide for my lost keys.
They traveled far and wide to find the best surfing spots.
They traveled far and wide to find the best surfing spots.
- 2Describing the spread or reach of something
News of the concert spread far and wide.
News of the concert spread far and wide.
The influence of his ideas reached far and wide.
The influence of his ideas reached far and wide.
- 3Emphasizing the extent or range of something
The festival attracted visitors from far and wide.
The festival attracted visitors from far and wide.
Her reputation as an artist is known far and wide.
Her reputation as an artist is known far and wide.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "far and wide" has been in use for centuries and is considered a standard English expression. It is believed to have originated from Old English and has been used in literature and everyday speech since then.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "far and wide" is typically used as an adverbial phrase and is not commonly used on its own without supporting words.
Is the phrase offensive?
"Far and wide" is not offensive in itself. It is a common phrase used to describe something being everywhere.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "far and wide" is commonly understood and used by English speakers of all ages and backgrounds. It is not specific to any particular audience.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "far and wide" is not specific to any accent or region. It is widely used and understood across English-speaking regions.
