Expand
/ɪkˈspænd/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo increase in size, volume, quantity, or scope; to enlarge or extend.
/ɪkˈspænd/
To become or make larger or more extensive.
The universe is constantly expanding.
💡 Simply: Imagine a balloon that gets bigger when you blow air into it. Expanding is like that – it's about making something bigger, like when a business opens more stores or when your tummy expands after a big meal!
👶 For kids: To get bigger, like when you blow up a balloon!
More Examples
They are planning to expand their product line.
The heat caused the metal to expand.
How It's Used
"The company plans to expand its operations overseas."
"Expanding into new markets is key to sustained growth."
"The gas expanded when heated."
To elaborate or give more details; to develop a topic or idea more fully.
/ɪkˈspænd/
To add detail or elaboration to something.
She expanded on her research findings during the presentation.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're telling a story, and you add more and more details to make it even better. That's expanding – adding more information or explaining something further. Think of it as giving a more in-depth explanation!
👶 For kids: To tell more about something, like giving more details in your story.
More Examples
The lawyer expanded on his argument.
Could you expand on your reasons for that decision?
How It's Used
"The author expanded on her initial ideas in the second chapter."
"Could you expand on that point?"
Idioms & expressions
expand on (something)
To provide more details or information about something.
"Could you expand on your earlier point?"
From Latin *ex* (out, forth) + *pandere* (to spread, stretch).
The word has been used since the 16th century with the primary meaning related to physical enlargement.
Memory tip
Think of an expanding balloon getting bigger.
Word Origin
"out, forth + to spread, stretch"