"in the narrow sense" vs "in a narrow sense"

Question

"in the narrow sense" vs "in a narrow sense"

Both "in the narrow sense" and "in a narrow sense" are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "In the narrow sense" is used when referring to a specific, well-defined meaning, while "in a narrow sense" is used when referring to a more general or subjective interpretation.

Last Updated: March 20, 2024

This phrase is used to specify a particular, restricted meaning of a term or concept.

Examples:

In the narrow sense, democracy refers only to the direct participation of citizens in decision-making.

Alternatives:

in the strict sense
in the specific sense
in the precise sense
in the technical sense
in the literal sense

This phrase is used to indicate a less specific or more subjective understanding of a term or concept.

Examples:

In a narrow sense, freedom can be seen as simply the absence of external constraints.

Alternatives:

in a limited sense
in a restricted sense
in a specific sense
in a particular sense
in a subjective sense

Answer 1

in the narrow sense

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to a specific, well-defined meaning.

Answer 2

in a narrow sense

This phrase is correct and used when referring to a more general or subjective interpretation.

"in the narrow sense" vs "in a narrow sense"

in the narrow sense

in a narrow sense

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