Extend-Expand | Commonly Confused Words
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Extend vs. Expand

Extend

/ɪkˈstend/
To make something longer or larger in space or time

Examples:

They extended the range of their Gothas with extra fuel tanks.What'll we do when he really extends himself!'It will cost considerable more to extend the line.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Expand

/ɪkˈspænd/
To become larger or more extensive.

Examples:

Her waistline had expanded two inches.She had not had a chance to expand.Even Phobus Bohlaug needs money, to 'expand' his business.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Ways to tell them apart:

etymology
  • Extend refers to lengthening something in duration or distance, whereas expand refers to increasing in size, volume, or scope.
  • Think of extend when you want to reach out or make something last longer.
  • Expand is more about spreading out or growing larger in a physical or metaphorical sense.
  • An extension is like adding more links to a chain, while expansion is like blowing up a balloon.
  • Use extend for time or projection into a space, and expand for increase in area or magnitude.
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