adjective

extensive

ik-STEN-siv/ɪkˈstensɪv/

Large in amount, area, or scope.

The extensive forest stretches across the hills to the distant horizon.

Extensive: panoramic forest stretching across hills all the way to distant horizon, tiny lookout cabin in foreground gives scale; foliage detailed nearby then simpler in distance.

Etymology

exLatinout

+tensLatinto stretch

+iveLatincharacterized by

“Stretching out” supplies the image of something far-reaching. Extensive applies that image both to physical area and to an immaterial range or amount.

In context

Edwin Okpodu4:17

Researchers have documented extensive gully development in different parts of the town, including areas around Igbe Road, Jattu Road, Warake, Iyehi, and Oshobugie.

AUCHI’S GULLY CRISIS | Where Did the Billions Go?

More examples

She has extensive experience teaching adults.
The museum holds an extensive collection of maps.
The house needed extensive repairs.

Forms

extensive

extensively adverb — over a wide area or in great amount

Similar words

widespread: Emphasizes distribution across an area or population.
comprehensive: Emphasizes complete coverage rather than size alone.