# extremes

/ɛkˈstɹimz/ (US) · /ɛkstɹˈiːmz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/extremes
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. opposite ends of a scale

noun · CEFR B2

the furthest points from the middle, such as the highest and lowest levels of something.

For teachers: the most distant or opposite points on a continuum or scale.

- The weather in this region reaches extremes of heat in summer and cold in winter.
- The political debate was dominated by the two extremes, leaving little room for those seeking a moderate compromise.

Usage: Usually used in the plural form to describe a range between two points.

### 2. excessive behavior

noun · CEFR B2

actions or feelings that are very strong and not moderate.

For teachers: actions, conditions, or qualities that are characterized by a lack of moderation or by being excessive.

- He went to extremes to make sure the party was perfect, even hiring a famous chef.
- The explorer was known for going to great extremes to document rare species in the most inhospitable environments on Earth.

Usage: Often appears in the phrase 'go to extremes'.

## Examples

- The weather reached extremes of heat this summer.
- The marathon runners had to prepare for extremes of temperature as they crossed the desert.
- Political discourse in the region has moved toward extremes, leaving little room for the moderate voices that once dominated the local assembly.

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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.