What is extensive? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of extensive

extensiveadjective

/ɪkˈstɛnsɪv//ɛkˈstɛnsɪv/
Definition & pronunciation of extensive

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "extensive." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown and some tips:

The General Pronunciation (Most Common in American English):

  • ex-TEN-sive

Let's break that down further:

  • ex: Pronounced like "eks" – as in, the letter "h"
  • TEN: Pronounced like "ten" – as in, the number. Emphasis here.
  • sive: Pronounced like "siv" – a short, quick "s" sound.

Putting it together: Say it quickly, connecting the sounds smoothly. It flows like this: "eks-TEN-siv."

Here’s a more detailed breakdown with phonetic symbols (for those who like them):

  • /ɪkˈstɛnsɪv/

    • /ɪk/ - as in "it" (the first syllable)
    • /ˈstɛnsɪv/ - this is the second syllable, with emphasis on the 'ten' sound.

Tips for Getting It Right:

  • Stress: The primary stress is on the second syllable – "TEN." This is often where people stumble.
  • Don’t say "ex-ten-siv-e." Resist the urge to separate the word into three distinct parts. It's meant to be one flowing syllable.
  • Listen to Examples: The best way to learn is to hear it pronounced correctly. Here are some resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "extensive" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/extensive/ – This website has pronunciations from native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce extensive" on YouTube and you'll find many videos.

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

  • What kind of English dialect are you most interested in (e.g., American, British)? (While the pronunciation above is fairly standard and widely used, there can be slight variations.)

Usage and examples with the word extensive in English

Let's break down how to use the word "extensive" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different meanings, so understanding the context is key.

1. Meaning: Large in Size or Scope

This is the most common use of "extensive." It describes something that covers a lot of area, time, or resources.

  • Examples:
    • "The museum has an extensive collection of ancient artifacts." (Large collection)
    • "They spent an extensive amount of time researching the topic." (Large amount of time)
    • "The park offers an extensive network of hiking trails." (Large area)
    • "The company's extensive marketing campaign was successful." (Large scope/reach)
    • "He has an extensive knowledge of classical music." (Large knowledge base)

2. Meaning: Detailed and Thorough

"Extensive" can also describe something that is very detailed and covers a lot of information.

  • Examples:
    • "The report provided an extensive analysis of the market trends." (Detailed analysis)
    • "She wrote an extensive letter outlining her concerns." (Detailed letter)
    • "The documentary offered an extensive look at the history of the region." (Detailed look)

3. Using "Extensive" as an Adjective

It almost always functions as an adjective – describing a noun.

4. Synonyms

Here are some words that can be used instead of "extensive," depending on the specific nuance you want to convey:

  • Large: (Simple, direct) - "A large library"
  • Wide: (Suggests breadth or variety) - “A wide range of options”
  • Broad: (Similar to wide) - “A broad understanding”
  • Extensive: (Most formal and precise – implies thoroughness)
  • Comprehensive: (Covers everything) - "A comprehensive guide"
  • Substantial: (Large in amount or size) - "A substantial investment"

5. Common Phrases

  • Extensive research: (A lot of research)
  • Extensive damage: (A large amount of damage)
  • Extensive experience: (A lot of experience)
  • Extensive network: (A large network of contacts)

Tips for Using “Extensive” Correctly:

  • Consider the context: Think about what you're trying to describe. Is it size, detail, or quantity?
  • Don’t overuse it: While it’s a good word, it can sound a bit formal and slightly overused in casual conversation. Sometimes a simpler word will do just as well.
  • Combine with other descriptive words: To add more color to your writing, use "extensive" in combination with other adjectives (e.g., “an extensive and insightful report”).

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples in a specific context (e.g., business, academic writing, casual conversation)?
  • Help you write a sentence using "extensive" correctly?
  • Explain how "extensive" differs from similar words like "wide" or "broad"?

Synonyms for the word extensive

Practice with vocabulary extensive

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The project required ______ research into market trends before any investment decisions could be made.
  2. After the hurricane, the coastal towns suffered ______ damage to infrastructure and homes.
  3. The company offers an ______ training program for new employees, focusing on specific software skills over a short period.
  4. News of the breakthrough spread rapidly, leading to ______ public discussion across social media platforms.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. To effectively manage the international project, the new director needs a(n) ______ understanding of global economic policies. a) superficial b) extensive c) narrow d) limited e) thorough

  2. The firm provides ______ consulting services, covering everything from initial feasibility studies to final implementation. a) selective b) shallow c) extensive d) narrow-scoped e) broad-ranging

  3. Before approving the new drug, regulators demanded ______ clinical trials to ensure its safety and efficacy across diverse patient groups. a) minimal b) limited c) superficial d) extensive e) comprehensive

  4. The team conducted a(n) ______ review of the critical report, focusing on every minute detail and analyzing specific data points. a) extensive b) broad c) in-depth d) superficial e) comprehensive

  5. Due to the sudden increase in demand, the company launched a(n) ______ production schedule to meet immediate orders. a) prolonged b) intensive c) loose d) relaxed e) broad

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The company has a lot of experience working with various international clients in this sector. Rewrite (must use "extensive" or related word forms):

  2. Original: The researchers carried out a very detailed investigation into the causes of the recent economic downturn. Rewrite (must use "extensive" or related word forms):

  3. Original: To solve the crisis, the committee decided to focus all their efforts on one immediate problem area. Rewrite (must NOT use "extensive"):

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. extensive
  2. extensive
  3. intensive
  4. widespread

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) extensive, e) thorough
  2. c) extensive, e) broad-ranging
  3. d) extensive, e) comprehensive
  4. c) in-depth, e) comprehensive
  5. b) intensive

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The company has extensive experience working with various international clients in this sector.
  2. The researchers carried out an extensive investigation into the causes of the recent economic downturn.
  3. To solve the crisis, the committee decided to launch an intensive effort on one immediate problem area.

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