extend

/ɪkˈstɛnd/
verbIntermediate to make longer or larger in space or time
general

to make something longer, larger, or more extensive

She extended the table to accommodate more guests.

She made the table longer so more people could sit.

The government extended the visa for another year.

They allowed the visa to remain valid for an additional year.

💡

Often used with prepositions like 'to', 'by', or 'for'.

general

to offer something to someone, such as an invitation or help

The host extended a warm welcome to all the guests.

The host offered a friendly greeting to everyone.

He extended his hand in friendship.

He offered his hand as a sign of friendship.

💡

Can be used in formal or informal contexts.

Collocations

extend an invitationto offer an invitationextend a deadlineto give more time for a taskextend a handto offer help or friendship

Related Phrases

extend oneselfphrase
to make a great effort
extend the olive branchidiom
to offer peace or reconciliation

💡Pro Tip

Common Prepositions

Remember that 'extend' is often followed by 'to', 'by', or 'for'.

Formal vs. Informal

Use 'extend' in formal contexts, such as business or official settings.

Gold Rule

Correct Usage

Do not confuse 'extend' with 'extent' (which is a noun meaning the size or area covered).

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'extenden', from Old French 'estendre', from Latin 'extendere' (to stretch out), from 'ex-' (out) + 'tendere' (to stretch).

📝Usage Notes

Can be used both literally (physical extension) and figuratively (offering something).

Word Breakdown

ex-
out
prefix
+
-tend
to stretch
root
+
-er
to make
suffix
English Dictionary