Translation guide
Describes something that exists or happens over a large area or among many people. Japanese uses different expressions depending on whether you are talking about a phenomenon, belief, damage, or physical distribution.
To say that something like a custom, belief, or practice is common across a wide area or group.
A natural phrase meaning 'widely spread/pervaded'. Used for customs, ideas, or practices.
その習慣は全国に広く行き渡っている。
That custom is widespread throughout the country.
Literally 'extends over a wide range'. Often used for effects, influence, or damage.
台風の被害は広範囲に及んだ。
The typhoon damage was widespread.
Means 'is rampant/spreading'. Often used for diseases or negative things. Can sound formal.
感染症が蔓延している。
The infectious disease is widespread.
To say that something is widely supported, used, or known by many people.
Directly means 'widely supported'. Natural for opinions, policies, or products.
その政策は広く支持されている。
That policy has widespread support.
Means 'is widespread/common' in the sense of being in general use, like technology or ideas.
スマートフォンは急速に普及した。
Smartphones became widespread rapidly.
Means 'widely known'. Good for facts, stories, or people.
その事実は広く知られている。
That fact is widespread knowledge.
To say that something is physically spread over a large area, like plants, animals, or objects.
Used for geographical distribution of species, resources, etc.
その植物はアジアに広く分布している。
That plant is widespread in Asia.
Means 'found everywhere'. More casual, for things that are ubiquitous.
この町にはコンビニが至る所にある。
Convenience stores are widespread in this town.
The English word 'widespread' does not have a single direct Japanese equivalent. Choose the expression based on what is widespread (belief, damage, distribution, etc.). Using 広い (wide) alone is not enough.
✕ その考えは広いです。
That idea is wide. (incorrect)