alcance
nounCEFR B2High frequency
What does “alcance” mean in English?
scope, reach — the extent of the area or subject covered by something
scope, reach — the extent of the area or subject covered by something (el alcance de una ley; fuera del alcance)
Example sentences
El alcance de las nuevas regulaciones medioambientales abarca tanto a las grandes empresas como a las pymes.
The scope of the new environmental regulations covers both large companies and SMEs.
La decisión tomada en esa cumbre tendrá un alcance histórico que se sentirá durante décadas.
The decision taken at that summit will have a historical reach that will be felt for decades.
Los avances en inteligencia artificial están fuera del alcance de la mayoría de las regulaciones existentes.
Advances in artificial intelligence are beyond the scope of most existing regulations.
How to use it
El alcance (noun, masculine) means 'scope, reach, range' — the extent or area that something covers. Core B2 collocations: el alcance de una ley/medida/decisión; fuera del alcance (out of reach); al alcance de (within reach of); de gran/amplio alcance; el alcance de las consecuencias. The verb is alcanzar. Distinguish from rango (numerical range) and extensión (physical extent).
Common mistake
Al alcance de todos = within everyone's reach; fuera del alcance de = beyond the reach/scope of. Don't confuse alcance with alcancía (piggy bank). 'Long-range' = de largo alcance. 'Scope of work' = alcance del trabajo.