Comprehensive: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is suitable when you want to describe something that covers all or nearly all elements or aspects of something. It's often used in the context of reports, plans, studies, or coverage that is very detailed and broad.

• The comprehensive report covered all the recent developments in the field.
• She offered a comprehensive review of the new software.

This word is best when you need to express that something has all the necessary or appropriate parts, or is finished without anything missing. It can refer to a task, a set, or any entity that is seen as whole.

• Make sure your homework is complete before you submit it.
• The complete collection of his works was published last year.

This word should be used when describing something done with great care and completeness. It's often applied to work, research, cleaning, or any activity that requires meticulous attention to detail.

• The police conducted a thorough investigation of the crime scene.
• She gave her apartment a thorough cleaning before moving out.

This word fits when you want to describe something that includes everything or everyone within a given scope. It often has a positive connotation of being fair and not excluding any particular group or element.

• We aim to create an inclusive environment for all employees.
• The holiday package is inclusive of all meals and activities.

Use this word to describe something that covers a large area, has reached a high degree or is wide-ranging. It often implies a significant amount or scope in terms of physical size, knowledge, damage, or influence.

• They conducted an extensive survey of customer opinions.
• The forest fire caused extensive damage.

Use this word when describing something that covers all or nearly all elements or aspects of something, especially in terms of information, detail, or understanding.

• She gave a comprehensive overview of the project.
• They have a comprehensive knowledge of the subject.

This word is appropriate when something is finished in every way, with no parts missing or outstanding tasks.

• This is the complete edition of the book.
• All orders have been complete.

Use 'thorough' when describing something that is done with great care and completeness, often involving detailed work.

• She conducted a thorough investigation into the matter.
• His work is always very thorough.

This word is ideal when emphasizing the inclusion of all items, people, or aspects without exception.

• The club is inclusive and welcomes people of all ages.
• They offer an inclusive package with all services included.

Use 'extensive' to describe something that is large in amount or scale, often used regarding areas, coverage, or spread.

• The storm caused extensive damage to the area.
• He has extensive experience in marketing.

This word is best used to describe something that is thorough and includes a lot of detail. Often used in academic, technical, or detailed reporting contexts.

• The report provided a comprehensive analysis of the economic impact.
• She has a comprehensive understanding of the subject.

Ideal for situations where something is intended to include everything or cover all aspects without exceptions. This is common in discussions about policies, systems, or ideologies.

• Their new policy is all-encompassing and leaves no issue unaddressed.
• His influence on the company was all-encompassing, impacting every department.

Use this word when describing something that covers a wide range but not necessarily in great detail. It is commonly used in casual contexts, overviews, or initial summaries.

• She has a broad knowledge of different musical genres.
• The company offers a broad range of services.

This term is typically employed to describe something that is complete or absolute. It can be used in various contexts, both formal and informal, but often with a sense of finality.

• He has total control over the project's budget.
• The team achieved total victory in the competition.