expand

The word “expand” means to make something bigger in size, scope, or amount. In plain terms, to grow bigger, or to give more detail about something.

“Expand” is pronounced ihk-SPAND (/ɪkˈspænd/ in IPA).

Here is “expand” used in a sentence: “The company plans to expand into new markets next year.”

Words with a similar meaning to “expand” include enlarge, elaborate and expand on.

The opposite of “expand” — its antonyms — are contract, limit and factor.

“Expand” is a verb.

The word “expand” comes from Latin. From Latin expandere, "to spread out," from ex- ("out") plus pandere ("to spread"). A distant relative of the word "spawn.".

“Expand” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

"Expand" on its own usually means to make something larger in size, scope, or amount, as in expanding a business. "Expand on" is a phrasal verb meaning to explain or describe something in greater detail, as in "Can you expand on that idea?" So you grow a thing when you expand it, but you add detail when you expand on it.

Use "expand" when something grows in size, volume, or scope, often in several directions, such as a company expanding into new markets. "Extend" suggests stretching something further in length or duration, like extending a deadline. Expansion implies overall enlargement, while extension implies continuation along a line.

Common pairings include expand a business, expand horizons, expand the mind, expand production, and expand rapidly. Metals and gases are also said to expand when heated. In discussion, you can expand on a point to give more detail.