Extensive

Definition

Extensive typically describes something that is vast in amount, size, or degree.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈstɛnsɪvli/
• Respelling: ik-STEN-siv-lee (with "ik" as in "ink," "STEN" as in "ten," "siv" as in "give," and "lee" as in "see")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈstɛnsɪvli/
• Respelling: ik-STEN-siv-lee (with "ik" as in "ink," "STEN" as in "ten," "siv" as in "give," and "lee" as in "see")

In both dialects, "extensively" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "STEN." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "ik-STEN-siv-lee."

Etymology

The term "extensive" originates from the Latin "extensus," which is the past participle of "extendere," meaning "to stretch out". This was later adopted into Middle French as "extensif", which English borrowed in the 17th century.

Derivatives

• Extensively (adverb)
• Extensiveness (noun)
• Extend (verb)
• Extension (noun)
• Extensive (noun, rarely used in modern English)

Synonyms

• Wide-ranging
• Broad
• Comprehensive

Antonyms

• Limited
• Narrow
• Restrictive

Usage

"Extensive" is often used to describe studies, research, coverage, or areas that are large in scope or thorough in detail. It can refer to both physical space and abstract concepts like knowledge or experience.

Related Terms

• Expansive: Covering a wide area.
• Inclusive: Covering or including everything.
• Sweeping: Having broad range or effect.

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Wide-ranging or Covering a Large Area: Used to describe something that spreads over a large geographical area or includes a broad range of items, topics, or details.
  • Example: The university offers an extensive range of courses in various disciplines.

• Thorough or Detailed: Refers to something that is thorough in coverage, addressing all necessary details or aspects.
  • Example: The investigation was extensive, covering every possible lead and detail.

• Significant or Considerable: Describes something that is substantial or large in terms of quantity, effort, or impact.
  • Example: The damage caused by the hurricane was extensive, affecting thousands of homes.

• Involving Considerable Detail or Range: Often used to describe something that is not only broad in scope but also detailed and comprehensive.
  • Example: The book provides an extensive analysis of the political history of the region.