What is extend? Pronunciation and usage in English

extend means . Learn how to pronounce and use extend through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of extend

extendverb

/ɪkˈstɛnd//ɛkˈstɛnd/
Definition & pronunciation of extend

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "extend" in English. Here's a breakdown with phonetic spellings and tips:

1. Phonetic Spelling (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

  • /ɪkˈstend/

Let’s break that down:

  • ɪk - This is a short, quick "ick" sound, like in "pick."
  • ˈstend - This is the stressed part of the word.
    • st - Pronounced like "st" in "stop."
    • end - Pronounced like “end” as in “attend.”

2. Saying it Out Loud:

Here’s a step-by-step approach to saying it:

  1. Start with "ick": Say "ick" quickly.
  2. Add "st": Say "st" (like "stop").
  3. Finish with "end": Say "end" (like "attend").

Putting it together: "Ick-stend" (with a slight pause between “ick” and “st”).

3. Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don’t overemphasize the “ex”: The "ex-" part is silent. The emphasis is really on the "tend" portion.
  • Don’t make it sound like "ex-tend": This is a very common mistake. Focus on the "ick-stend" sound.
  • Stress: The stress is on the second syllable ("stend").

Resources for Hearing it:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • Are you a native English speaker, or are you learning?
  • Is there a specific accent you're trying to match (e.g., American, British)?

Usage and examples with the word extend in English

Let's break down how to use the word "extend" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings and uses. Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. To Make Longer (Physical Extension)

  • Meaning: To increase the length, size, or scope of something.
  • Examples:
    • "We need to extend the driveway to accommodate the new garage." (Making it longer)
    • "The architect proposed an extension to the house." (Adding more rooms)
    • "The rope was used to extend the reach of the ladder." (Making it longer to reach something)

2. To Continue or Prolong (Time/Duration)

  • Meaning: To make something last longer; to continue something beyond its original planned time.
  • Examples:
    • "The meeting was extended by an hour due to a lengthy discussion." (Continued for longer)
    • "We’ll extend our vacation by a week." (Prolonging the vacation)
    • "The deadline for submitting the application has been extended." (Delayed the end time)

3. To Stretch or Expand (Figurative - Ideas, Opportunities)

  • Meaning: To broaden, deepen, or make something more general or inclusive. This is often used in a more abstract sense.
  • Examples:
    • "The company is looking to extend its operations into new markets." (Expanding into new areas)
    • "The author’s writing style extends to multiple genres." (His style applies to various types of writing)
    • "The research could be extended to include a wider range of variables." (Adding more factors to consider)
    • “Let’s extend a greeting of welcome to our new colleague.” (Broaden the greeting)

4. To Give a Special Priviledge or Grace (Formal)

  • Meaning: To grant additional rights or benefits. (More formal and less common)
  • Example:
    • "The university will extend its scholarship program to more students." (Offers more scholarships)

Key Phrases and Constructions:

  • Extend to…: To reach or apply to something. “The instructions extend to all departments.”
  • Extend an invitation: To offer someone the opportunity to do something. “I’d like to extend an invitation to the party.”
  • Extend a hand (to): To offer help or support. "He extended a hand to the injured man."

Tips for Using “Extend” Correctly:

  • Consider the Context: The meaning of "extend" depends heavily on the context. Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand which meaning is intended.
  • Synonyms: Consider using synonyms like: lengthen, prolong, broaden, expand, continue, stretch, increase. This can help you choose the most precise word for your writing or speech.
  • Verb vs. Noun: “Extend” can be a verb (doing something) or a noun (the thing being done – e.g., “The extension to the house.”)

Could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to write or say where you want to use “extend”? (Knowing the context will help me give you even more tailored advice.)
  • Are you struggling with a specific sentence or usage where you’re unsure how to use “extend”?

Synonyms for the word extend

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