Extend: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used when increasing the range, area, or scope of something or when making something longer in time or space.

• We need to extend the deadline to give everyone more time to complete the project.
• The company plans to extend its services to new markets.

Used when making something longer in terms of distance or duration.

• We had to lengthen the skirt by a few inches.
• The teacher decided to lengthen the class by fifteen minutes to cover all the material.

Generally used when emphasizing the negative aspect of making something longer in duration, often unnecessarily or undesirably.

• The medication can help to prolong the patient's life.
• They tried to prolong the meeting with unnecessary discussions.

Often used when pulling something to make it longer or wider, or when extending a concept or resource to its limits.

• He tried to stretch the truth to make the story more interesting.
• The workout routine included exercises to stretch the muscles.

Often used when making something larger in size, number, or importance, usually by adding more elements or details.

• The business is looking to expand its operations in Europe.
• They plan to expand their product line next year.

Used when making something larger in terms of length or time.

• They decided to extend the deadline for the project
• The company plans to extend the road to connect both towns

Used when something extra is added, not necessarily increasing in size but more in numbers or elements.

• They made an addition to the staff by hiring three new employees
• The new addition to the building includes a cafeteria

Implies a significant growth or increase in scope, size, or extent, often in economic or physical space contexts.

• The company's expansion into new markets was successful
• The expansion of the universe is a fascinating subject in astronomy

Specifically refers to lengthening the duration of something, often projects or events. Sometimes can have a negative connotation if something is made to last longer than necessary.

• The meeting's prolongation caused frustration among the attendees
• The project experienced a prolongation due to unforeseen issues

Usually refers to making something physically bigger or more significant in magnitude.

• The enlargement of the photograph made it clearer to see
• The city's enlargement came with new infrastructure and businesses