lexicow

expand

/ɪkˈspænd//ɪkˈspænd/·verb
I watch one still dot at the centre, and around it a square frame pushes outward, then another behind it, then another — ring after ring marching toward the walls until the whole stage is filled. The middle never moves; only the edges travel. It holds there, breathing at full size, then folds back to the seed to do it again. Growing, I see, is always something leaving the centre.
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Definition

To expand is to spread out — to grow larger in size, number, or reach. Heated gas expands, a company expands into new markets, and a writer is asked to expand on a point by adding detail. The Latin expandere means 'to spread out', and the word keeps that outward motion: the edges move away while the centre stays put. It is the natural opposite of shrink and contract. In its 'expand on' form the sense shifts slightly, from growing bigger to explaining more fully.

Examples

  • The universe has been expanding ever since the Big Bang.
  • The firm wants to expand across Asia, though scarce capital may slow the plan.
  • Could you expand on that argument? Right now it feels too brief.

Collocations

expand rapidly·expand into new markets·expand on an idea·expand the scope·continue to expand

Synonyms

grow·enlarge·broaden·increase·extend

Antonyms

shrink·contract·diminish

Word family

expansion (noun)·expansive (adjective)·expanded (adjective)

In TOEFL & IELTS

A workhorse for IELTS Task 1 (an expanding trend) and for business and science passages. The phrase 'expand on' is prized in Speaking and Writing — it signals you can develop an idea, not just state it. Keep expand (bigger in size or scope) distinct from extend (longer in length or time): a company expands; a deadline is extended.