What is another word for expand

Find antonyms of words, enhance your English language skills

expand

/ɪkˈspænd/

To increase in size, volume, quantity, or scope.

Antonyms of expand

Nouns

Strongest matches:

- contraction

- reduction

Weak matches:

- consolidation

- abbreviation

Verbs

Strongest matches:

- contract

- reduce

- shrink

Weak matches:

- abbreviate

- condense

- summarize

Synonyms

enlarge, extend, increase, grow, stretch, broaden, widen, amplify, develop, swell, inflate, escalate, magnify, dilate, augment, lengthen, deepen, spread

Usage examples:

1. The company decided to expand its operations into the European market.

2. As the balloon was filled with air, it began to expand, growing larger and rounder until it was fully inflated.

3. The professor encouraged her students to expand their research beyond just online sources.

Learn more words on the go

Download the app

Frequently asked questions

What is a direct antonym for 'expand'?

A direct antonym for 'expand' is 'contract.' While 'expand' refers to becoming larger in size, volume, quantity, or scope, 'contract' means to decrease in size, volume, or quantity, or to become more limited in scope.

Can 'shrink' be used as an antonym for 'expand'? How does it differ from 'contract'?

Yes, 'shrink' can be used as an antonym for 'expand.' It similarly refers to a reduction in size, volume, or quantity. The difference between 'shrink' and 'contract' often lies in the context of their use. 'Shrink' is more commonly used to describe a reduction in physical size, often in a more informal context, such as fabric becoming smaller when washed. 'Contract,' on the other hand, can be used in both physical and abstract contexts, such as a reduction in the size of a tumor or the scope of a project.

Are there any informal or slang terms that serve as antonyms for 'expand'?

While not strictly formal or academic, terms like 'downsize' or 'scale back' serve as informal or slang antonyms for 'expand.' 'Downsize' often refers to reducing in size in a business context, such as reducing the number of employees or the scale of operations. 'Scale back' is similar, implying a reduction in the scope or intensity of an activity or plan.

What is an antonym for 'expand' in the context of a discussion or argument?

In the context of a discussion or argument, an antonym for 'expand' could be 'narrow down' or 'limit.' These terms refer to focusing on fewer topics or aspects, reducing the breadth of the subject matter under consideration, in contrast to 'expand,' which would imply broadening the discussion to include more topics or details.