Comprehensive
/ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/
Definitions
Including or covering all or nearly all relevant elements or aspects of a subject.
/ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/
Including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something.
The report provides a comprehensive overview of the market.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're packing for a trip and want to bring *everything* you might need – that’s what 'comprehensive' means. For example, a comprehensive travel guide would have details about all the places you're planning to visit. A comprehensive study plan would cover all of the topics for a test.
👶 For kids: Like having a toy box that has ALL the toys! Comprehensive means it has a lot of different things.
More Examples
The university offers a comprehensive range of courses.
She received a comprehensive medical examination.
How It's Used
"A comprehensive exam covering all chapters."
"A comprehensive business plan outlining all aspects of the company."
"Comprehensive car insurance covers damage from various causes."
From Late Latin *comprehensivus*, from *comprehendere* 'to grasp, to include'. The word evolved to encompass the meaning of covering much or all of something.
The word 'comprehensive' gained prominence in the 18th and 19th centuries, reflecting the growing emphasis on thoroughness and completeness in various fields.
Memory tip
Think of a comprehensive list: it has everything you need.
Word Origin
"to grasp, to include"