What does "extensively" mean?

1. (thoroughly or in detail) to a great degree or in a way that covers many details. 2. (over a large area) covering a very large space or many different places.

How do you use "extensively"?

Typically follows the verb it modifies or appears at the end of the clause.

extensively

adv.

US //ɪkˈstɛnsɪvɫi// UK //ɛkstˈɛnsɪvli// ex·ten·sive·ly

1 thoroughly or in detail (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

to a great degree or in a way that covers many details.

to a significant degree; indicating that a subject or task has been dealt with in a comprehensive or thorough manner.

Example

The researchers studied the problem extensively before suggesting a new solution.

Example

The legal team researched the case law extensively to ensure that every possible precedent had been accounted for before the trial began.

Usage

Typically follows the verb it modifies or appears at the end of the clause.
- slightly
- narrowly
2 over a large area (adv.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

covering a very large space or many different places.

covering a vast physical area or distributed over a wide range of locations.

Example

This type of tree grows extensively throughout the northern part of the country.

Example

The invasive species has spread extensively across the wetlands, threatening the survival of several native plants in the region.
- locally

Origin

From extensive + -ly.

Word family

Adjectiveextensive
Adverbextensively