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Annex Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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annex

[ˈÌn.eks ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

building

An annex is an additional building that is connected to or near a main building, providing extra space or accommodations.

Synonyms

addition, attachment, extension.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
annex

Use 'annex' when referring to a building or area that has been added to a larger one, typically for specific purposes such as additional office space. It can also refer to the act of adding territory, often in a political or military context, which can have a negative connotation.

  • The government decided to build an annex to the main hospital to accommodate more patients.
  • The country announced its intention to annex the neighboring territory, which sparked protests.
extension

This word is best used when you need to describe something that lengthens or expands the original, such as additional time, space, or physical structures. It carries a neutral connotation.

  • We were granted an extension on the project deadline to ensure better quality.
  • The house extension added two more bedrooms and a larger kitchen.
addition

This word is suitable when referring to the act of adding something to something else, which can be anything from a physical object to an abstract concept. It is general and neutral in tone.

  • The new addition to the team is already making a significant impact.
  • They celebrated the addition of a new member to the family.
attachment

Use 'attachment' when talking about something that is joined or fastened to something else, particularly when referring to files added to emails or physical accessories for devices.

  • Please check the attachment for more information about the project.
  • The camera has several useful attachments, including a wide-angle lens.

Examples of usage

  • The company decided to build an annex to accommodate the growing number of employees.
  • The school added an annex to the existing building for the new library.
Context #2 | Verb

territory

To annex means to take control of a territory and add it to one's own territory, often through force or political maneuvering.

Synonyms

incorporate, occupy, seize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
annex

Used when a country or state takes over a smaller region or territory by legal or formal means.

  • The government decided to annex the neighboring island for strategic reasons.
  • The city council voted to annex the new suburb.
seize

Typically used to indicate taking something quickly and forcefully, often without permission. This term usually has negative connotations.

  • The police were able to seize a large quantity of illegal drugs.
  • Rebels managed to seize control of several government buildings.
occupy

Often used to describe taking control of a place or position, usually temporarily and sometimes by force. This term often has negative connotations.

  • Protesters decided to occupy the main square.
  • The military was ordered to occupy the captured city.
incorporate

Used when something is officially included or added as part of a larger whole, often in a formal or organized manner.

  • The company plans to incorporate new technologies into their production process.
  • We should incorporate feedback from all team members before finalizing the project.

Examples of usage

  • The country decided to annex the neighboring region after a long-standing dispute.
  • The conqueror sought to annex the land and expand his empire.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • One famous example is the annexation of Texas by the United States in 1845, which was a significant event leading up to the Mexican-American War.
  • In 1938, Nazi Germany annexed Austria in a move that was widely condemned internationally and marked a significant escalation in European tensions.
  • The annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014 spurred ongoing geopolitical conflicts and discussions about international law.

International Law

  • Annexation can often lead to disputes, especially if the territory is claimed by another state, raising questions of legality under international law.
  • In many instances, annexation is deemed illegal if it's carried out without the consent of the local populace or the existing government.

Art and Literature

  • In literature, annexation is sometimes used as a metaphor for character development, where one identity takes over another.
  • The concept of annexation can also appear in dystopian fiction, where governments control or absorb neighboring states to maintain power.

Origin of 'annex'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'annexare', meaning 'to fasten to' or 'to add', which is fitting for its meaning.
  • It first entered English in the late 15th century, originally referring to the act of adding or attaching something in a general sense.

The word 'annex' originates from the Latin word 'annexus', which means 'connected'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century with the meaning of 'to connect or attach'. Over time, it evolved to refer to an additional building or territory that is connected or added to an existing structure or territory.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,347, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.