What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
enlarge
Example
Can you please enlarge this picture so we can see the details? [enlarge: verb]
Example
The company plans to enlarge its operations to other countries. [enlarge: verb]
Example
The artist decided to enlarge the painting to make it more visible. [enlarging: gerund or present participle]
expand
Example
The company plans to expand its business to other regions. [expand: verb]
Example
The balloon expanded as more air was blown into it. [expanded: past tense]
Example
The teacher asked the students to expand their essays to include more details. [expand: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Expand is more commonly used than enlarge in everyday language. Expand is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while enlarge is less common and has a more technical or specific connotation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between enlarge and expand?
Both enlarge and expand can be used in formal and informal contexts, but enlarge may be more commonly used in technical or scientific writing due to its specific connotation.
