Synonyms for

Expand

Verb / ɪˈkspænd / Another word for expand — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To become larger in size or volume.

Synonyms & similar words

flourish expatiate spreadout lucubrate thrive contract amplify fleshout elaborate exposit inflate blowup dilate extend enlarge expound boom grow increase enlarge extend spread stretch widen broaden develop swell inflate augment amplify escalate intensify magnify multiply dilate thicken

Synonyms by register

Formal

enlarge augment extend amplify

Informal

stretch open up spread out get bigger

Literary

unfurl bloom blossom

Antonyms

contract shrink reduce compress condense diminish decrease

Common collocations

  • expand the business
  • expand its reach
  • expand its scope
  • expand its operations
  • expand into new markets
  • expand the definition
  • expand the universe

Word family

noun expansion
verb expand
adjective expansive
adverb expansively

Usage note

Often used in contexts of growth, development, or increasing size. Be mindful of the specific nuance; 'expand' can refer to physical size, abstract concepts, or business growth.

Example sentences

  1. The plant will expand as it gets more sunlight.
  2. The company plans to expand its business to other countries.
  3. If you exercise regularly, your muscles will expand and become stronger.
  4. The universe is constantly expanding.
  5. We need to expand our vocabulary by reading more books.

Quotes

  • The mind that opens up to a new idea never returns to its original size.
  • Expansion always, in all ways, is key to abundance and prosperity.
  • The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.

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