Words / C1

WYDN/ˈwaɪdn/

To widen is to make or become wider, or (of a gap or sample) to increase in range: widen a road, widen the sample. Narrow sits opposite; extend is a cousin. Averaging a slice away is a cut, not courtesy.

Meaning

To make or become wider; of a gap or sample, to increase in range.

Examples

• “Widen the sample to the night cohort; do not average it away.”
• “Broaden is the close twin. Extend is already in this course as a cousin. Courtesy is manner. A slice is methods. Name the slice; keep manners for the email.”

Good to know

Make wider, or increase in range. Close: broaden. Averaging away a slice is a cut.

Near in meaning

broaden

New