# extensively

/ɪkˈstɛnsɪvɫi/ (US) · /ɛkstˈɛnsɪvli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/extensively
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. thoroughly or in detail

adverb · CEFR B2

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

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

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

### 2. over a large area

adverb · CEFR B2

covering a very large space or many different places.

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

- This type of tree grows extensively throughout the northern part of the country.
- The invasive species has spread extensively across the wetlands, threatening the survival of several native plants in the region.

## Examples

- The police searched the building extensively for clues.
- The author traveled extensively across South America to research her latest historical novel.
- The legal team reviewed the documents extensively before the trial, ensuring that every piece of evidence was cross-referenced with the witness statements.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.