extensively

[ ik-sten-siv-lee ]

adverb

1. so as to cover a wide range or area; broadly:

   He reads and travels extensively and is regarded as one of the best-informed men anywhere.

2. in a far-reaching, comprehensive way; thoroughly:

   All the science departments have been extensively renovated, with new tutorial rooms and well-equipped laboratories.

3. at great length or in great detail:

   He spoke extensively about the threats his daughter faces as a transgender individual.

4. to a great degree or in great amounts or numbers; a lot:

   Although the river is used extensively by boaters, no official map has been developed to show the best places to dock, things to see, and hazards to avoid.

Other Words From

• non·ex·ten·sive·ly adverb
• pre·ex·ten·sive·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of extensively¹

extensive ( def ) + -ly

Example Sentences

“And one of the things that I talk about extensively, as you know Brian, in the book, is confronting the Chinese Communist Party. You and I are both sons of the Reagan Revolution,” Roberts said.

From Salon

Trump spoke extensively about such retribution on the campaign trail.

From Los Angeles Times

So, no surprise then that Justice Chandrachud’s comment, seen by many as religious, was extensively criticised.

From BBC

She grew up in a Greek family, in which the death of her brother was something they never talked about "extensively".

From BBC

Unsurprisingly for many, she was the player who spoke most extensively about human rights in Saudi Arabia, with the country hosting a major women's sport event for the first time.

From BBC

Related Words

• broadly
• largely