Enlarging Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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enlarging

[ɪnˈlɑːdʒɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in photography

To make a photographic print larger than the negative by using an enlarger.

Synonyms

amplify, expand, magnify.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
enlarging

Used when increasing the physical size or dimensions of something, such as a photograph or a room.

  • We are enlarging the dining area to accommodate more guests.
  • He is enlarging the old photograph to hang it on the wall.
magnify

Used when making something look bigger, often through a lens or microscope, or to emphasize something greatly.

  • The microscope can magnify the cells up to 1000 times.
  • He tends to magnify his problems, making them seem bigger than they really are.
amplify

Applied when increasing the volume or strength of sound, or when expanding on an idea or argument.

  • The speakers will amplify the sound of the live band.
  • She decided to amplify her thesis by adding more examples and evidence.
expand

Used for extending the range, number, or volume of something, such as a business, a collection, or a concept.

  • They plan to expand their business to new markets next year.
  • I'm trying to expand my knowledge by reading more books on different subjects.

Examples of usage

  • The photographer spent hours in the darkroom enlarging the photos.
  • She decided to enlarge the image to capture more details.
  • The process of enlarging requires precision and attention to detail.
Context #2 | Verb

to increase in size

To become or make something larger in size.

Synonyms

augment, expand, extend.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
enlarging

Typically used when something is made larger, particularly in physical size or scale, without changing its nature.

  • They are enlarging the image to fit the whole wall.
  • The company is enlarging its headquarters to accommodate more staff.
expand

Used broadly when something increases in size, volume, or scope. Can apply to both physical objects and abstract ideas or operations.

  • The universe is constantly expanding.
  • The company aims to expand its market reach next year.
extend

Used when something is increased or prolonged in terms of length, duration, or scope.

  • They decided to extend their vacation by another week.
  • The teacher extended the deadline for the assignment.
augment

Often used when adding something extra to enhance or improve something, particularly in quantity or effectiveness. Can be used in both physical and abstract contexts.

  • The doctor suggested vitamin supplements to augment her diet.
  • They are planning to augment the capabilities of their software.

Examples of usage

  • The company is planning to enlarge its production facilities.
  • The balloon enlarged as more air was pumped into it.
  • He needs to enlarge the text on his computer screen for better readability.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Art and Design

  • In art, enlarging images can change the perspective, creating new ways to view a subject.
  • Graphic designers often use enlarging techniques to highlight important elements, drawing attention effectively.

Technology

  • In photography and digital media, enlarging an image can sometimes lead to loss of quality, creating a blurry appearance.
  • Software used for enlarging images often includes tools to help minimize distortion, ensuring a clearer result.

Education

  • Enlarging text size on screens helps students with visual impairments or reading difficulties to better engage with content.
  • Teachers may enlarge posters or diagrams in classrooms to ensure all students can see important information.

Science

  • Scientists use the process of enlarging in microscopy to investigate tiny structures, revealing details not visible to the naked eye.
  • In biology, understanding cell enlargement helps researchers explain growth processes in living organisms.

Origin of 'enlarging'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'enlargen', meaning to make wide.
  • It combines 'en-' (to cause) with 'large', which comes from Latin 'largus', meaning generous or abundant.

The word 'enlarge' originated from the Old French word 'enlargier', which in turn came from the Latin word 'largus' meaning 'abundant' or 'ample'. The term has been used in English since the late 14th century, originally in the sense of 'to make larger'. Over time, it has evolved to encompass various meanings related to increasing in size or scope.


See also: enlargement, enlarger.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,614, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.