EXTENSIVE Synonyms: 28 Similar and Opposite Words

extensive

adjective

ik-ˈsten(t)-siv

Definition of extensive

as in broad

having considerable extent a rock hound whose extensive reading enables him to identify just about any rock or mineral

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of extensive Bearded Lady began on Magnolia Avenue as a cozy pub with an extensive beer menu. — Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 Aug. 2026 Ryan undertook extensive restoration work after acquiring Castleton, modernizing the home without sacrificing its historic character. — Mark David, Robb Report, 25 Aug. 2026 Every credit article is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of tax products. — Dan Avery, CNBC, 25 Aug. 2026 Lane’s first extensive run as a freshman for the Trojans came in the 2023 Holiday Bowl. — Jeff Zrebiec, New York Times, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for extensive

Recent Examples of Synonyms for extensive

Adjective

Blakespear said the definition was broad enough to encompass a wide range of heavy industrial uses, including chemical, plastics and pesticide manufacturing and strip mining.

— Naomi Taxay, Sacbee.com, 29 Aug. 2026
The e-commerce giant is preparing to launch its Prime Air service in Tracy as part of a broader expansion effort that will bring delivery drones to 500 cities and towns by the end of the year.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of broad

Adjective

The Iran war exposed just how much the world relied on a narrow 20-mile-wide waterway.

— Katie Silver, Fortune, 29 Aug. 2026
Not only do the gods have multiple heads and arms, but the gods themselves are multiple, appearing in different forms with an array of different names, and with a wide variety of stories told about them.

— Charles Preston, Encyclopedia Britannica, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of wide

Adjective

The town is now essentially a real-world study for scientists, after comprehensive data was gathered over a year back in 2007.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 26 Aug. 2026
Problems with standardized assessments The most comprehensive measure of adult literacy levels is the Survey of Adult Skills, which is part of a larger international assessment known as the PIAAC.

— Jennifer D. Kobrin, The Conversation, 25 Aug. 2026

Definition of comprehensive

Adjective

At the start of the year, Iceland Foreign Minister Thorgerdur Gunnarsdottir said that deeper dialogue and collaboration with the EU would be a key factor in shoring up the country's interests.

— Sam Meredith, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
Thankfully, his reappearance in the show actually has a deeper purpose.

— Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of deep

Adjective

Lagos combines expansive parkland golf with a closing stretch that takes on a more links-like feel, creating a diverse nine holes where the scenery is every bit as memorable as the golf.

— Jeff Goudy, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
Even with the beta restricted to a single borough, Silvernia felt incredibly expansive, leaving me with high hopes for the final build's full world map.

— Gabriel Zamora, PC Magazine, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of expansive

Adjective

The aircraft will maximize the defensive potential of Qatar's F-15QAs, Rafales, and Typhoons, allowing for extended surveillance and interception missions, reinforcing a defensive posture rather than offensive strikes.

— Paul Iddon, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026
This fire was brought to a second alarm due to high temperatures and extended work needed at the scene, the Fire Department added.

— Tania Azhang, Sacbee.com, 29 Aug. 2026

Definition of extended

Adjective

But this type of [toxic] female figure is a widespread archetype even in other places and parts of the world.

— Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 26 Aug. 2026
Shah was sworn in in March on a promise to clean up national politics and address widespread grievances at the lack of opportunities for young people in Nepal, which relies on remittances sent home by migrant workers for around a quarter of its GDP.

— Billy Stockwell, CNN Money, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of widespread

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extensions

extensive

extensively

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“Extensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/extensive. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of extensive

adjective

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