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Extendable: Definition, Usage & Synonyms (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：capable of being lengthened (extendable)
extendable
/ɪkˈstɛndəb(ə)l/
adj.
Something that can be made longer or larger by pulling out its parts.
capable of being lengthened
➕
/ˈkeɪpəb(ə)l əv ˈbiːɪŋ ˈlɛŋθənd/
adj.
Describes an object that can be made longer or larger by pulling out its parts, such as furniture or tools.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'extendere' (ex- 'out' + tendere 'to stretch'), meaning 'stretchable'.
💡 Mnemonic
Think of a telescope: it's extendable, so you can extend it to see farther.
📖 Example
I bought an extendable laptop desk that fits perfectly in my small apartment because I can shorten it when not in use.
I purchased an extendable laptop desk that adjusts to fit my small apartment by shortening when unused.
🔗 Collocations
extendable table – a table that can be made longer by adding sections
extendable ladder – a ladder that can be adjusted to different heights
extendable handle – a handle that can be pulled out for easier use
🔄 Synonyms
expandable (adj.) – capable of being made larger in size or volume
adjustable (adj.) – able to be changed to fit different conditions
telescopic (adj.) – designed to slide in and out for extension
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
extend (v.) – to make something longer or larger
extension (n.) – the act of extending or a part that extends
extensible (adj.) – capable of being extended, similar to extendable
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'extendable' originates from Latin 'extendere', meaning 'to stretch out'. It entered English via Old French and has been used since the 15th century to describe objects or durations that can be lengthened.
Meaning 2：can be prolonged (extendable)
extendable
/ɪkˈstɛndəb(ə)l/
adj.
A time period, agreement, or right that can be made to last longer than originally planned.
can be prolonged
➕
/kæn bi prəˈlɒŋd/
adj.
Refers to a time period, agreement, or right that can be made to last longer than originally planned.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
My library card is extendable for another year simply by updating my information online.
My library card can be renewed for another year by updating my information online.
🔗 Collocations
extendable deadline – a deadline that can be moved to a later date
extendable visa – a visa that can be renewed for a longer stay
extendable contract – a contract that can be prolonged beyond its initial term
🔄 Synonyms
renewable (adj.) – capable of being extended or continued for another period
prolongable (adj.) – able to be extended in duration
elastic (adj.) – flexible and able to be stretched, often used metaphorically for time
🚫 Antonyms
fixed-term (adj.) – having a set duration that cannot be changed
non-renewable (adj.) – not able to be extended or continued
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