extent
ihk-STEHNT
Extent (noun) means the area, range, or degree to which something covers or applies. Example: “We don't yet know the full extent of the damage.”
noun
1
The area, range, or degree to which something covers or applies.
"We don't yet know the full extent of the damage."
"To what extent do you agree with the plan?"
"The map shows the extent of the lake in summer."
How to use extent
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHow far something reaches, or how much of something there is.
Common pairings
to a certain extent
the full extent
extent of the damage
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Word forms
- Plural
- extents
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We don't yet know the full _____ of the damage.
Etymology
From Anglo-Norman extente, related to Latin extendere, "to stretch out".
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “extent” mean?
The word “extent” means the area, range, or degree to which something covers or applies. In plain terms, how far something reaches, or how much of something there is.
How do you pronounce “extent”?
“Extent” is pronounced ihk-STEHNT (/ɪkˈstɛnt/ in IPA).
How do you use “extent” in a sentence?
Here is “extent” used in a sentence: “We don't yet know the full extent of the damage.”
What is another word for “extent”?
Words with a similar meaning to “extent” include expanse, extension and measure.
What part of speech is “extent”?
“Extent” is a noun.
Where does the word “extent” come from?
The word “extent” comes from Latin. From Anglo-Norman extente, related to Latin extendere, "to stretch out".
Is “extent” a common word?
“Extent” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is an example of extent?
Extent describes how far something reaches or applies. You might mention 'the extent of the damage' after a storm, 'the full extent of the law,' or agreeing with an idea 'to some extent.' In each case it measures range, degree, or scope rather than a fixed physical object.
What is the difference between extent and extend?
Extent is a noun meaning the range or degree to which something applies, as in 'the extent of the problem.' Extend is a verb meaning to stretch out, enlarge, or make something reach further. They share a root but belong to different parts of speech, which is why they are easily confused.
How do you use extent in a sentence?
Extent often appears in fixed phrases such as 'to some extent,' 'to a large extent,' or 'to what extent.' For example: 'To what extent do you agree with the plan?' These phrases let you describe partial agreement or measure how fully something is true.
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