Definition

1. Verb (Transitive):

   • To make something larger in size, extent, or scope: To increase the physical dimensions, capacity, or range of something.
   • To reproduce a photograph or image on a larger scale: To create a bigger print or digital version of a picture.

2. Verb (Intransitive):

   • To become larger or more extensive: To grow in size, scope, or detail.
   • To speak or write about something in greater detail: To expand upon a topic, idea, or account.

Examples of Usage

• Transitive Verb:

  • The city plans to enlarge the public park by adding more land.
  • She used software to enlarge the photograph for the exhibition.
  • Reading widely can enlarge your understanding of the world.

• Intransitive Verb:

  • The pupil of your eye enlarges in dim light.
  • Could you enlarge on your proposal? I'd like to hear more details.

Advanced Usage

• "to enlarge upon/on something": To discuss or describe something in more detail; to elaborate.

  • In his speech, the professor enlarged upon the historical context of the discovery.

• "enlarge one's horizons/mind": To broaden one's experiences, knowledge, or perspectives.

  • Traveling is a great way to enlarge your horizons.

Variants and Related Words

• Enlargement (n): The act of making something larger or the state of being enlarged; a larger version of something, especially a photograph.

  • The enlargement of the European Union was a significant political event.
  • I ordered a 10x12 enlargement of my favorite portrait.

• Enlarger (n): A device, especially in photography, used to produce enlarged prints from negatives.

Synonyms

• Expand: To increase in size, volume, or scope. (Often used for abstract concepts like knowledge or influence.)
• Magnify: To make something appear larger, often using a lens; to exaggerate.
• Amplify: To make louder or more significant; to expand upon in detail (similar to "enlarge upon").
• Augment: To make greater by addition; to increase.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Enlarge on/upon: To provide more details or information about a subject. (This is the primary phrasal verb form.)
  • The report enlarges on the economic benefits of the new policy.

Related Idioms

• To enlarge the scope of: To broaden the range or extent of something.
  • The new research grant will enlarge the scope of our project.

Verb

1. add details, as to an account or idea; clarify the meaning of and discourse in a learned way, usually in writing
   • She elaborated on the main ideas in her dissertation
2. become larger or bigger
3. make large
   • blow up an image
4. make larger
   • She enlarged the flower beds