Magnify: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when you want to talk about making something appear larger, often through a lens or other optical instrument. It can also mean to make something seem more important or serious.

• The scientist used a microscope to magnify the cells
• She tended to magnify minor problems, making them appear more serious than they were

Choose this word when you want to talk about making something physically bigger, or to expand upon an idea or topic. It is often neutral and does not carry any negative connotations.

• They decided to enlarge the kitchen by knocking down a wall
• She chose to enlarge on her earlier points during the presentation

This word is best for situations where you want to increase the volume of sound or to make something more intense. It can also be used metaphorically to describe increasing the impact or strength of something.

• The speakers were used to amplify the music at the concert
• The report aims to amplify awareness about climate change

This word is used when you want to talk about making something larger in scope, range, or extent. It is versatile and can be used in both physical and abstract contexts, such as business or ideas.

• The company plans to expand its operations to Europe
• He expanded his argument by providing more evidence

Used when you want to make something appear larger or more important, often visually or in terms of significance.

• The microscope can magnify the tiny details of the specimen
• His actions magnified the importance of the event

Used to describe making something more intense or acute, usually applying to emotions or senses.

• The suspense in the movie heightened as the plot unfolded
• The news of the promotion heightened his sense of achievement

Used when describing the increase in strength or degree of something, often referring to feelings, situations, or conditions, and can sometimes have a negative connotation.

• The conflict between the two groups has intensified in recent weeks
• The storm is expected to intensify over the next few hours

Often used when you aim to increase power, strength, or prominence, typically in a positive way.

• The new marketing campaign should boost our sales
• Regular exercise can boost your energy levels

Used when talking about making something appear larger or more significant, often used with physical objects or abstract concepts.

• The microscope can magnify objects up to 1000 times
• His mistakes were magnified in the final report

Used when improving the quality, value, or attractiveness of something.

• The new software update will enhance our productivity
• She used filters to enhance the colors in the photo

Describes making something stronger or more extreme, often used with emotions or conditions.

• The conflict began to intensify after the speech
• Their feelings for each other intensified over time

Typically used when discussing increasing the volume of sound, but can also refer to expanding or elaborating on information or details.

• He used a microphone to amplify his voice
• The author aimed to amplify the main points in his second edition