expand
To make something larger, more extensive, or more detailed
Examples
In a meeting
“Could you expand on your proposal in the next meeting?”
Over coffee
“I want to expand my book collection this year.”
Why this word
grow
expand implies intentional, systematic enlargement rather than organic or uncontrolled growth
increase
expand suggests adding breadth or scope, while increase focuses mainly on quantity or size
enlarge
expand conveys development in multiple dimensions or aspects, not just physical size
Usage tip
Use when something needs to grow in size, scope, or detail; opposite of condense
Etymology
Latin 'expandere' from 'ex-' (out) + 'pandere' (to spread)
Get a new word every morning
One precise word per day. Under 60 seconds to read. Free forever.
Related words
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly in few words.
ambiguous
Open to more than one interpretation; not clear or decided.
convey
To communicate or make an idea, feeling, or meaning known.
reiterate
To say something again for emphasis or clarity.
paraphrase
To restate something in different words to make it clearer or shorter.