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expand

[ɪkˈspænd]

expand Definition

  • 1to become or make something greater in size, number, or importance
  • 2to speak or write about something in more detail, or to explain something that was not clear before
  • 3to open something that is folded so that it covers a larger area than before

Using expand: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "expand" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The company plans to expand its operations overseas.

  • Example

    She expanded on her earlier comments during the interview.

  • Example

    He expanded the map to show more details.

  • Example

    The foam expands when it comes into contact with air.

  • Example

    The universe is expanding at an accelerating rate.

expand Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for expand

Idioms Using expand

  • to grow rapidly and uncontrollably

    Example

    The company's profits have been expanding like a balloon in recent years.

  • to gain weight, especially around the stomach area

    Example

    Eating too much junk food can cause you to expand your waistline.

  • expand one's mind

    to broaden one's intellectual or spiritual horizons

    Example

    Studying philosophy can help you expand your mind and think more critically.

Phrases with expand

  • expand your horizons

    to increase the range of one's knowledge, experience, or interests

    Example

    Traveling to different countries can help you expand your horizons.

  • to provide more information or details about something

    Example

    Can you expand on what you meant by that?

  • to learn and use new words

    Example

    Reading books is a great way to expand your vocabulary.

Origins of expand

from Latin 'expandere', meaning 'to spread out'

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Summary: expand in Brief

The verb 'expand' [ɪkˈspænd] means to increase in size, number, or importance, or to provide more detail or explanation. It can also refer to opening something that was previously folded. Examples include 'The company plans to expand its operations overseas,' and 'He expanded the map to show more details.' Phrases like 'expand your horizons' and idioms like 'expand one's waistline' add nuance to the term.

How do native speakers use this expression?