Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Extensive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŒŽ
Add to dictionary

extensive

[ษชkหˆstษ›nsษชv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

description

Covering or affecting a large area; very large in amount or degree. Extensive can also refer to something that is thorough and detailed.

Synonyms

comprehensive, thorough, wide-ranging.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
extensive

Used to describe something that covers a large area or has a lot of detail and content.

  • The library has an extensive collection of rare books.
  • The damage caused by the flood was extensive.
comprehensive

Used to describe something that is all-inclusive and covers every detail or aspect.

  • We need a comprehensive plan to tackle climate change.
  • The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the current market trends.
wide-ranging

Used to describe something that covers a broad spectrum of topics, subjects, or areas.

  • The conference included wide-ranging discussions on global health issues.
  • The book offers a wide-ranging overview of European history.
thorough

Used to describe an action or activity that is done with great attention to detail, leaving nothing out.

  • The police conducted a thorough investigation of the crime.
  • She gave the room a thorough cleaning.

Examples of usage

  • The company conducted an extensive market research before launching the new product.
  • She has extensive knowledge in the field of computer science.
  • The book provides an extensive overview of the history of art.
Context #2 | Adjective

area

Extensive can also describe something that is far-reaching or wide-ranging in scope or effect.

Synonyms

far-reaching, prolonged, wide-reaching.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
extensive

Used to describe something that covers a large area, has a broad scope, or is detailed and comprehensive.

  • The library offers an extensive collection of books on various subjects.
  • He has extensive knowledge in computer programming.
far-reaching

Used to describe something that has a significant impact or influence over a wide area or a long period of time.

  • The new policy will have far-reaching consequences for the education system.
  • Far-reaching changes in technology affect how we live our daily lives.
wide-reaching

Used to describe something that affects or influences a large number of people or a vast area, similar to 'far-reaching' but often used in more physical or direct contexts.

  • The campaign had wide-reaching support across the nation.
  • The internet has wide-reaching capabilities, connecting people globally.
prolonged

Used to describe something that continues for a long time, often longer than usual or expected, sometimes with a negative connotation.

  • The country suffered from a prolonged drought.
  • After a prolonged debate, the committee finally reached a decision.

Examples of usage

  • The extensive damage caused by the hurricane will take years to repair.
  • The project required extensive collaboration between different departments.
  • His extensive travels have broadened his perspective on different cultures.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In ecology, an extensive habitat refers to a large area where a wide variety of plants and animals can live.
  • The term is also used in agriculture to describe farming that uses large areas of land with lower inputs of labor and resources.

Literature

  • In literary analysis, an extensive metaphor can help in creating vivid imagery that helps readers visualize the story better.
  • Authors may develop extensive narratives that delve into multiple characters' stories, enriching the overall plot.

Art

  • In visual arts, works that are extensive often cover large canvases or installations, impacting viewers through their sheer size.
  • Street art can be considered extensive when it spreads across multiple buildings or city blocks, transforming public spaces.

Technology

  • The term is often used in computing to describe extensive networks that connect large numbers of devices.
  • In data science, extensive data sets are crucial for drawing accurate conclusions and making informed decisions.

Origin of 'extensive'

Main points about word origin

  • This word comes from the Latin word 'extensivus,' which means 'stretched out' or 'spread out.'
  • First known use in English was in the early 17th century, during a time of exploration and expansion of knowledge.

The word 'extensive' originated from the Latin word 'extensus', which means 'stretched out' or 'wide'. The term evolved over time to encompass the idea of covering a large area or having a wide range. In English, 'extensive' has been used since the 17th century to describe things that are vast, comprehensive, or thorough.

See also: extend, extendable, extended, extendedly, extending, extension, extensions, extent.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,615, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.