Enlarge: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when increasing the size of something, such as a photograph or a document, in a neutral or formal context.

• Can you enlarge this photo for the album? The architect decided to enlarge the floor plans

Best used in a formal context to indicate an increase in size, volume, or scope, often used for businesses, projects, or abstract concepts.

• The company plans to expand its operations next year
• Her influence has expanded over the years

Commonly used in an informal setting to mean increasing the size of something, often a picture. It can also refer to an explosion or losing one's temper, so the context should be clear to avoid misunderstanding.

• He blew up the balloon for the party
• They decided to blow up the image to make it more visible

Typically employed when talking about making something appear larger, often with the help of a tool like a magnifying glass or a microscope.

• The scientist used a microscope to magnify the bacteria
• The lens will magnify the image by 10x

Best used when referring to making something physically bigger or more detailed, often related to images or physical objects.

• Can you enlarge this photo for the presentation?
• They plan to enlarge the factory to increase production.

Appropriate for describing growth in size, range, or scope, often in business or when adding more elements to something.

• Our company plans to expand into new markets next year.
• They decided to expand their product line to include more eco-friendly options.

Commonly used when referring to natural or organic increase, such as children, plants, or businesses evolving over time. It can also describe becoming more significant or developing.

• Children grow up so fast.
• We aim to grow our customer base by 20% this year.

Used when talking about progress or improvement over time, often with skills, projects, or ideas.

• She is working hard to develop her programming skills.
• We need a team to develop the new marketing strategy.

Used when you want to make something physically bigger or to expand the scope of something.

• The company plans to enlarge the office next year.
• Enlarge the photo so we can see the details.

Used when talking about growing in number, amount, or degree, often relating to measurable quantities like sales, population, or intensity.

• The company aims to increase its profits next quarter.
• The temperature is expected to increase over the weekend.

Used when you want to make something longer in time or space, or to add more of something.

• They decided to extend their holiday by a few days.
• Please extend the deadline for the project.

Used when you want to improve the quality of something by adding something valuable, often in terms of knowledge, culture, or experience.

• Traveling can greatly enrich your life.
• Reading books helps to enrich your vocabulary.