Word: expanded (verb)

Associations

The word "expanded" means to increase in size, volume, or scope. It is often used to describe something that has grown or been made larger.

• Example 1: "The company expanded its operations to new countries." (Here, it means the company grew its business into new areas.)
• Example 2: "She expanded her knowledge by taking more classes." (In this case, it means she increased her understanding by learning more.)
• Example 3: "The balloon expanded when air was blown into it." (This shows a physical increase in size.)

A well-known synonym for "expanded" is "enlarged." The difference is that "expanded" often implies a more gradual process or a broader increase, while "enlarged" can suggest a more immediate or physical increase in size.

Substitution

You can use words like "increased," "broadened," or "amplified" in place of "expanded," but each has a slightly different meaning:

• "Increased" focuses on a rise in quantity.
• "Broadened" emphasizes a widening or making more inclusive.
• "Amplified" often relates to making something stronger or more intense.

Deconstruction

The word "expanded" comes from the root "expand," which is made up of the prefix "ex-" meaning "out" and the root "pand" meaning "to spread." Together, they suggest the idea of spreading out or increasing in size. The suffix "-ed" indicates that the action has already happened, making it a past participle.

Inquiry

Think about the word "expanded":

• Can you think of a time when you expanded your skills or interests? What did you do?
• How might a business expand in today's world? What factors would they need to consider?
• In what ways can a person expand their social circle? What activities might help with that?