Synonyms for

Expands

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

Definition

To become or make something larger in size, volume, quantity, or scope.

Synonyms & similar words

dilate boom expand expound extend inflate amplify exposit contract thrive lucubrate elaborate flourish expatiate enlarge grow increase widen stretch swell inflate enlarge extend spread broaden develop multiply amplify augment dilate escalate heighten intensify proliferate rise

Synonyms by register

Formal

enlarges increases augments amplifies

Informal

grows gets bigger spreads out

Literary

unfurls blooms

Antonyms

contracts shrinks reduces compresses lessens diminishes

Common collocations

  • expands rapidly
  • expands significantly
  • expands its reach
  • expands its operations
  • expands the market
  • expands its influence
  • expands to include

Word family

noun expansion
verb expand
adjective expansive
adverb expansively

Usage note

The word 'expands' generally refers to an increase in size, scope, or volume. Be mindful of context; for instance, a business 'expands' its market, while a balloon 'expands' with air.

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Example sentences

  1. The dough expands as it bakes in the oven.
  2. The universe is expanding at an increasing rate.
  3. She expands her vocabulary by reading books.
  4. The company plans to expand their business overseas.
  5. The city expands its bike lane network every year.

Quotes

  • The mind, once expanded to the dimensions of larger ideas, never returns to its original size. - Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr.
  • “The universe is full of magical things patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper.” - Eden Phillpotts
  • “Our task must be to free ourselves... by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature and its beauty.” - Albert Einstein

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