What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
widen
Example
The road needs to be widened to accommodate more traffic. [widen: verb]
Example
The river widens as it flows towards the sea. [widens: present tense]
Example
The debate widened to include topics beyond the original scope. [widened: past tense]
extend
Example
Can you extend your arm and touch the ceiling? [extend: verb]
Example
The park extends for several miles along the river. [extends: present tense]
Example
The deadline has been extended by two weeks. [extended: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Extend is more commonly used than widen in everyday language. Extend is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while widen is less common and typically used in specific physical spaces or areas.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between widen and extend?
Both widen and extend can be used in formal and informal contexts, with no significant difference in formality level.
