Synonyms for

Extensive

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

Definition

covering or affecting a large area or number; extensive can also mean having a wide range or effect

Synonyms & similar words

allembracing extended allinclusive acrosstheboard encompassing allencompassing intensive wide blanket panoptic broad widespread comprehensive expansive far-reaching broad sweeping thorough vast large-scale inclusive pervasive universal across-the-board all-encompassing all-inclusive complete general overall ubiquitous ample

Synonyms by register

Formal

comprehensive thorough far-reaching sweeping

Informal

big huge a lot of tons of

Literary

boundless vast ample

Antonyms

limited narrow small slight confined restricted brief

Common collocations

  • extensive research
  • extensive experience
  • extensive damage
  • extensive network
  • extensive knowledge
  • extensive use
  • extensive coverage

Word family

noun extension
verb extend
adverb extensively

Usage note

Often used to describe something that covers a large area or range, such as knowledge, research, or damage. Avoid using it for things that are merely long in duration, where 'prolonged' might be more appropriate.

Example sentences

  1. The company conducted an extensive survey to understand their customers' needs.
  2. The ocean is so extensive that no one person can explore it all.
  3. The teacher gave an extensive lesson on the history of the United States.
  4. The museum has an extensive collection of ancient artifacts.
  5. The project required extensive research before it could be completed.

Quotes

  • The world is so extensive and diverse that we must cling to our own passions and beliefs simply to remain sane. - Unknown
  • The greatest wealth is to live content with little, for there is never want where the mind is satisfied with what it has. - Lucretius
  • The most extensive wisdom is but the knowledge of how little one knows. - William Hazlitt

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