Extend Meaning
Extend Definition & Usage
To make something longer or larger by stretching it or adding to it.
Examples
- "She extended the cable to reach the other side of the room."
- "The road was extended by several kilometers to improve accessibility."
- "He extended the deadline by two weeks to allow for more work."
- "The company plans to extend its operations into Asia next year."
- "The garden was extended by adding a new section with a variety of plants."
To give or offer something, typically a courtesy, a service, or an opportunity.
Examples
- "She extended her hand in greeting as he entered the room."
- "I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the family."
- "The invitation has been extended to all members of the community."
- "They extended the offer for the position to the candidate this morning."
- "We extended our support to the project by donating funds."
To continue or prolong something beyond its expected or normal duration.
Examples
- "The meeting was extended to allow for more discussion."
- "We decided to extend our vacation by a few days."
- "The concert was extended by an encore performance."
- "Her leave of absence was extended until the end of the month."
- "The negotiations were extended by a further two days."
To increase or broaden one's influence or effect.
Examples
- "The empire extended its influence across many nations."
- "He extended his reach into the tech industry with his latest venture."
- "Her charity extended its work into rural areas this year."
- "The university's reputation has extended beyond national borders."
- "The author's impact extended through generations of readers."
To show or offer a gesture of kindness or goodwill, often toward others.
Examples
- "They extended a warm welcome to the new arrivals."
- "I want to extend my gratitude for all your help during the event."
- "She extended a generous offer to help with the renovation."
- "We extended our thanks to the volunteers who made the event a success."
- "He extended a kind invitation to join his family for dinner."
Cultural Context
The word 'extend' comes from Latin 'extendere', which means 'to stretch out'. Over time, it has evolved to cover a wide range of meanings from physically stretching or enlarging something to offering services or extending time. Its usage in both physical and figurative contexts makes it a versatile term in English.
The Stretching Horizon
Story
The Stretching Horizon
As the sun began to set over the distant hills, Marcus stood at the edge of the cliff, looking out over the vast landscape that stretched before him. The wind carried the scent of the sea, and he felt an overwhelming sense of possibility. He had recently extended his business into the region, expanding his company's reach to new territories. It was a risk, but one he felt was necessary to secure the future of his company. His partner, Sarah, had always supported the decision, even when the path was uncertain. Sarah joined him at the edge, her gaze following his. 'This view,' she said with a sigh, 'it’s like we’re extending ourselves into the unknown.' Marcus smiled, knowing that their move was more than just a business venture—it was about creating something bigger, something that reached beyond their previous limitations. Later that evening, they sat down with the local community leaders, extending their invitation to collaborate on a new project. 'We're not just here to build a business,' Marcus explained. 'We're here to build a future.' The conversation flowed naturally, and as the night grew darker, Sarah whispered, 'I think this is just the beginning.' Indeed, as they extended their plans and their outreach into the region, they were creating connections and laying the foundation for something monumental. It wasn't just about growing the company; it was about making a lasting impact. As the night came to a close, Marcus extended his hand in gratitude, not just to the community, but to Sarah, who had been his unwavering partner through every step of this journey. Together, they had stretched their limits and were now reaching for a horizon full of endless opportunities.
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