narrow sense

[/ˈnæroʊ sɛns/]
noun phrase
sentido restrito
1. A restricted or limited interpretation of a word, concept, or meaning; the most specific or technical definition as opposed to broader interpretations
In the narrow sense, the term 'philosophy' refers only to Western academic traditions.
No sentido restrito, o termo 'filosofia' refere-se apenas às tradições acadêmicas ocidentais.
2. A precise or strict definition that excludes related but distinct meanings
Democracy in the narrow sense means only direct voting by citizens.
Democracia no sentido restrito significa apenas votação direta pelos cidadãos.
This phrase is predominantly used in academic, philosophical, and legal discourse in both English and Portuguese-speaking contexts. In Brazil, it appears frequently in university textbooks and formal writing to distinguish precise technical meanings from colloquial usage. The phrase reflects the influence of analytical philosophy and linguistic precision in formal communication.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
strict senserestricted senselimited meaningtechnical sense
Antonyms / Antônimos
broad sensewide sensegeneral senseloose sense

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
sentido restrito
Most common usage in academic and formal contexts
General Brazilian
senso estrito
Alternative usage, slightly less frequent
Portugal
sentido estrito
Preferred in European Portuguese academic discourse
USA
narrow sense
Commonly used in philosophy, linguistics, and legal contexts

Related Words

broadly speakingin the broad sensedefinitioninterpretationsemanticsdenotation

Related Idioms & Phrases

in the narrow sense
strictly speaking
to put it narrowly
in a narrow sense of the word
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