What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
elaborate
Example
The professor gave an elaborate explanation of the theory. [elaborate: adjective]
Example
She asked me to elaborate on my previous statement. [elaborate: verb]
expand
Example
The company plans to expand its operations to other countries. [expand: verb]
Example
The author expanded on the theme of love in her latest novel. [expanded: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Expand is more commonly used than elaborate in everyday language. Expand is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while elaborate is less common and typically used in academic or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between elaborate and expand?
While elaborate is typically associated with a formal and technical tone, expand is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
