Thesaurus

extend

Q: How does the verb 'extend' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of extend are lengthen , prolong , and protract . While all these words mean "to draw out or add to so as to increase in length," extend and lengthen imply a drawing out in space or time but extend may also imply increase in width, scope, area, or range. // extend a vacation // extend welfare services // lengthen a skirt // lengthen the workweek

Q: When would 'prolong' be a good substitute for 'extend'?

The words prolong and extend can be used in similar contexts, but prolong suggests chiefly increase in duration especially beyond usual limits. // prolonged illness

Q: How do 'protract' and 'prolong' relate to one another, in the sense of 'extend'?

Protract adds to prolong implications of needlessness, vexation, or indefiniteness. // protracted litigation

verb

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Synonyms & Antonyms of extend

1 to make longer

our guests from out of town extended their visit by a week

Synonyms for extend

Words Related to extend

attenuate,
thin

Near Antonyms for extend

thicken

Antonyms for extend

2 to put before another for acceptance or consideration

the couple extended an invitation to join them for a get-together at their house after the concert

Synonyms for extend

Words Related to extend

pose,
propose

hold out

give in,
submit

volunteer

Phrases Synonymous with extend

run by
(or run past)

Near Antonyms for extend

retract,
withdraw

3 to arrange the parts of (something) over a wider area

you can extend that chaise longue so that it lies completely flat

Synonyms for extend

Words Related to extend

overspread

Near Antonyms for extend

Antonyms for extend

4 to be positioned along a certain course or in a certain direction

our backyard extends all the way to that brook

Synonyms for extend

bear,
go,
head,
lead,
lie,
run

Words Related to extend

5 to make greater in size, amount, or number

embarked on a series of wars intended to extend his empire

Synonyms for extend

Words Related to extend

maximize

follow up,
parlay

Near Antonyms for extend

cut back,
retrench

Antonyms for extend

6 to alter (something) for the worse with the addition of foreign or lower-grade substances

the company extends its ice cream with thickeners and other additives

Synonyms for extend

Words Related to extend

load

doctor,
spike

Near Antonyms for extend

fertilize,
lard

Antonyms for extend

Frequently Asked Questions About extend

How does the verb extend contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of extend are lengthen, prolong, and protract. While all these words mean "to draw out or add to so as to increase in length," extend and lengthen imply a drawing out in space or time but extend may also imply increase in width, scope, area, or range.

extend a vacation

extend welfare services

lengthen a skirt

lengthen the workweek