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Synonyms

expansively

American  
[ik-span-siv-lee] / ɪkˈspæn sɪv li /

adverb

  1. in a wide-ranging or comprehensive manner.

    Both directly local and expansively global actions are needed to confront this crisis.

    “Broadband” needs to be defined as expansively as possible—connection speeds that are sufficient for home users are still inadequate for libraries.

  2. in an effusive, unrestrained, or open manner.

    She spoke expansively, and at great length, about her plans for the future.

  3. across a wide physical or geographical area.

    The band toured expansively through Finland, Sweden, and Denmark.

    Areas of color are applied expansively, restricted only by the physical edges of the canvas.


Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

Etymology

Origin of expansively

expansive ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He misses an opportunity to think more expansively about one of the most important developments in Texas during the 20th century: the state’s accelerating transition toward a more urban and industrial landscape.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

“COVID required all companies to think much more expansively about talent — how you get it, how you keep it,” said Kelliher.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 19, 2026

The opening language of the 14th Amendment could not have been more inclusive, applying expansively to “all persons,” and not only to the identifiable class of formerly enslaved persons and their children.

From Slate • Jun. 27, 2025

But Axar and Shreyas, whose partnership came from 136 balls, expertly rotated the strike calmly and adjusted to the tricky surface which enabled Hardik to play more expansively in the closing overs.

From BBC • Mar. 2, 2025

“Have some coffee, Yitzchak. It is a long way through the forest from the shtetl to here, and even longer to Fayge’s village,” Shmuel said, gesturing expansively with his hand.

From "The Devil's Arithmetic" by Jane Yolen

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