WordGarden.ioextensive
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɛkstˈɛnsɪv/
US
- /ɪkˈstɛnsɪv/
Meanings
Adjective
large in amount, area, range, or effect
using large areas with relatively low input, especially in farming
depending on the amount or size of a physical system
Beyond the definition
Think of an explorer mapping a huge, unknown land. That kind of work would be extensive. It means covering a large area or including many parts. An extensive collection is not just big; it includes many different things. A student might have extensive knowledge of history, meaning they know a lot about many time periods and events. A forest fire could also cause extensive damage, harming a very large area. The word suggests that something goes far and includes a lot, not just a small part.
The word "extensive" describes something that covers a large area, range, or scope. It often suggests both size and breadth. Think of an extensive library: it is not just full of books, but includes many subjects and many kinds of information.
"Extensive" can be used for physical things and events. You might say, "The damage from the hurricane was extensive," if many towns or roads were affected. It also fits less physical ideas, such as knowledge, research, or preparation. If someone has extensive knowledge of music, they know a great deal about it. If a team does extensive research, they look at many sources and details, not just a few.
Sometimes, "extensive" is used to stress how much there is. You might talk about an extensive network of roads, an extensive list of changes, or extensive support for a plan. In these cases, the idea is that something spreads widely or includes many parts.
Unlike simply saying something is "large," "extensive" usually points to reach, coverage, or range, not only size. Something can be extensive because it spreads over a big area, affects many people, or includes many details. In short, it describes something broad, wide, and covering a lot.
Examples
- 1
Research
The report is based on extensive research carried out over three years.
- 2
Storm damage
The storm caused extensive damage to homes along the coast.
- 3
Company policy
The company made extensive changes to its hiring process last year.
- 4
Work experience
She has extensive experience working with young children.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Museum collection
The museum has an extensive collection of photographs from the war.
- 6
Drug testing
The new drug went through extensive testing before it was approved.
See also
Similar
- broad
- wide-ranging
- large-scale
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- extensive experience
- extensive research
- extensive damage
- extensive network
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- extensiveadjective