Cool MateStretch
UK /["/stretʃ/","/ˈstretʃɪz/","/stretʃt/","/ˈstretʃɪŋ/"]/US /["/stretʃ/","/ˈstretʃɪz/","/stretʃt/","/ˈstretʃɪŋ/"]/
Definition
to make something longer, wider or looser, for example by pulling it; to become longer, etc. in this way
In simple words: To pull something tight or to make something longer.
Examples
- I like to stretch before my morning workout to prevent injuries.
- He tries to stretch his budget to cover all of his expenses.
- The rubber band can easily stretch to double its size.
- During the meeting, she will stretch the truth to make her point stronger.
- They decided to stretch the deadline to allow more time for submissions.
- It's important to stretch your legs after sitting for a long time.
- He doesn't want to stretch the rules, but he's in a tough spot.
- She can stretch her imagination to create incredible stories.
Usage notes
Used when discussing physical activities or when referring to fabric. Avoid in formal writing unless discussing physical science.
Grammar pattern
stretch + object
Memory hint
Sounds like 'stretch' — imagine a long rubber band being pulled.
Collocations
- taut
- tautly
- tight
- across
- between
- over
- taut
- tautly
- tight
- across
- between
- over
- gently
- lazily
- luxuriously
- on
- stretch and yawn
- yawn and stretch
- far
- endlessly
- forever
- seem to
- along
- beyond
- from
- endlessly
- back
- out
- before
- into
- really
- severely
- fully
- to
Synonyms
- extend
Antonyms
- compress
- shorten
- contract
Common mistakes
- Confusing 'stretch' with 'stitch'.
- Using 'stretch' without an object (e.g., 'I stretch every morning' is correct, but 'I stretch' alone can sound incomplete).
- Mispronouncing it as 'strech' instead of 'stretch'.