What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
enlargement
Example
The enlargement of the photograph revealed details that were previously unseen. [enlargement: noun]
Example
The company is planning an enlargement of its product line to include more options. [enlargement: noun]
widening
Example
The widening of the road will help alleviate traffic congestion. [widening: noun]
Example
The gap between the two buildings was widening with each passing day. [widening: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Widening is more commonly used than enlargement in everyday language. Widening is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while enlargement is less common and often used in specific technical or scientific fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between enlargement and widening?
Both enlargement and widening can be used in formal or informal contexts, but enlargement may be considered more technical or specialized in certain fields.