B2verb2K

Extend

UK /["/ɪkˈstend/","/ɪkˈstendz/","/ɪkˈstendɪd/","/ɪkˈstendɪŋ/"]/US /["/ɪkˈstend/","/ɪkˈstendz/","/ɪkˈstendɪd/","/ɪkˈstendɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to make something longer or larger

In simple words: To make something longer or bigger.

Examples

  • We need to extend the deadline for our project submission.
  • The teacher decided to extend the lesson to cover more material.
  • He tried to extend an invitation to his friends for the party.
  • Many plants will extend their roots in search of water and nutrients.
  • She will extend her hand to help anyone in need.
  • The road will extend further into the mountains.
  • The warranty is set to extend for another year.
  • During the summer, the days seem to extend indefinitely.

Usage notes

Use 'extend' when talking about adding time, space, or length. Appropriate in both casual and formal contexts, but avoid using in overly informal situations.

Grammar pattern

extend + object

Memory hint

Think of 'extend' like 'extend your hand' — reaching out further.

Collocations

  • greatly
  • significantly
  • beyond
  • from
  • to
  • greatly
  • significantly
  • beyond
  • from
  • to
  • greatly
  • significantly
  • beyond
  • from
  • to

Synonyms

  • prolong
  • lengthen
  • stretch
  • expand
  • increase

Antonyms

  • shorten
  • reduce

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'expand' — forgetting that 'extend' often refers to length rather than volume.
  • Using the wrong preposition with 'extend', like 'extend to' instead of 'extend for'.