Breadth vs. Length: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Harlon Moss || Updated on November 8, 2023
Breadth refers to the measure of the wider or narrower aspect of something, while length is the measure from end to end.
Key Differences
Breadth refers to the width of something at its widest point. It's often used to describe the wide-ranging scope of a topic or the comprehensive extent of knowledge. Length, in contrast, refers to the measurement of something from one end to the other, usually considered the greatest dimension of an object.
In discussing a piece of fabric, breadth would relate to how wide the fabric is when laid out, while length would indicate how long the fabric stretches from one end to the other. Breadth can also metaphorically refer to the scope of a discussion, whereas length might refer to the duration or extent of the same discussion.
Breadth often implies a certain degree of comprehensiveness or diversity within a certain range. Length, however, may emphasize the extent, distance, or amount of time something covers. An academic course may have a breadth of topics but the length of the course is determined by the semester's duration.
In art, breadth may describe the expansiveness of visual elements or a variety of styles within a collection. Length, in a literary context, might refer to the number of pages in a book or the duration of a play. Thus, breadth often carries a more qualitative aspect, while length is quantitatively precise.
Measurements in breadth are typically concerned with how far apart sides are from each other. In architecture, breadth might refer to the wider dimension of a building, whereas length would describe the distance from the front to the back. In navigation, breadth might be used to describe the extent of a river's width, while length would detail the river's measurement from source to mouth.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Width or wideness of an object.
End-to-end measurement of an object.
Scope
Implies range or diversity.
Indicates distance or duration.
Usage
Used to describe how wide or vast.
Used to describe how long or extended.
Connotation
Often associated with diversity.
Often associated with size or time.
Measurement
Measures side to side.
Measures from one end to another.
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Breadth and Length Definitions
Breadth
Wide range.
The course offered breadth in its subjects.
Length
Extent of a piece.
He ran the entire length of the field.
Breadth
Figurative diversity.
The breadth of his work is unmatched.
Length
Long duration.
They were surprised by the length of the lecture.
Breadth
Width of an object.
The breadth of the table is three feet.
Length
A piece, often of a standard size, that is normally measured along its greatest dimension
A length of cloth.
Breadth
Openness of area.
They admired the breadth of the valley.
Length
Duration of time.
The length of the movie was two hours.
Breadth
Comprehensive quality.
Her breadth of knowledge was impressive.
Length
Distance covered.
The marathon's length was daunting.
Breadth
The measure or dimension from side to side; width.
Length
The state, quality, or fact of being long. See Usage Note at strength.
Breadth
A piece usually produced in a standard width
A breadth of canvas.
Length
The measurement of the extent of something along its greatest dimension
The length of the boat.
Length
Measurement from end to end.
The length of the room is twenty feet.
FAQs
Can breadth be used figuratively?
Yes, it can indicate the wide range or scope of something, like the breadth of knowledge.
How do you use breadth in a sentence?
"The breadth of the river varies at different points."
Is breadth synonymous with width?
Yes, in most contexts, breadth is synonymous with width.
What does length mean?
Length is the measurement or extent of something from end to end.
Does breadth have to do with size?
Breadth specifically refers to the distance or dimension from side to side of an object or concept.
Is breadth an abstract concept?
It can be both concrete, referring to physical measurement, or abstract, referring to the scope of something.
Can people have breadth?
Figuratively, yes. It can refer to the wide range of a person's experience or skills.
Can breadth be used in financial terms?
Yes, it can describe the wide range or diversity of a portfolio or market.
What does breadth mean?
Breadth refers to the width of an object or the extent of something from side to side.
Can length be used figuratively?
Yes, it can describe the duration of an event or process, like the length of a meeting.
What is the adjective form of breadth?
Broad is the adjective form, meaning wide in extent or scope.
How is length used in geometry?
Length refers to the longest dimension of a rectangle or the longer pair of sides.
Can length apply to abstract concepts?
Yes, it can refer to the duration or extent of non-physical entities, like time or events.
Can length refer to pieces of writing or speeches?
Absolutely, it often refers to the number of words, pages, or minutes of a speech or document.
Is length always the longest dimension?
Typically, yes, especially when comparing it to width and height.
How do you measure length?
Length is measured in units such as meters, feet, or miles, from one end to the other.
How do you use length in a sentence?
"The length of the boat made it hard to turn quickly."
Is length a noun?
Yes, length is a noun referring to the measurement of something from end to end.
How is breadth measured?
Breadth is measured across the widest part of an object, usually in units of length.
What is the adjective form of length?
Long is the adjective form, indicating something that has a great extent from one end to the other.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
