B2adverb2K

Extensively

UK /["/ɪkˈstensɪvli/"]/US /["/ɪkˈstensɪvli/"]/

Definition

in a way that covers a large area

In simple words: In a very detailed and wide-ranging way.

Examples

  • She has travelled extensively.
  • He has written extensively on contemporary art.
  • a spice used extensively in Eastern cooking

Usage notes

Use 'extensively' when describing actions that are done in-depth or in a large scope. It is appropriate in both spoken and written contexts but may feel overly formal in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

extensively + verb

Memory hint

Think of 'extend' — something that is stretched out wide or long.

Collocations

  • research extensively
  • study extensively
  • travel extensively
  • document extensively

Synonyms

  • thoroughly
  • thoroughly
  • thoroughgoing
  • thoroughbred

Antonyms

  • superficially
  • shallowly

Common mistakes

  • Confuse with 'intensively' which means deeply focused but not necessarily wide in scope.
  • Using it in a sentence where the action isn't broad or detailed enough.
  • Incorrectly using it as a noun instead of an adverb.