broadening
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈbrɔːdənɪŋ/
KK: /ˈbrɔːdənɪŋ/
noun
Definition
The process of making something wider or more extensive.
Example
The broadening of the road will help reduce traffic congestion.
Conversation
I’ve been thinking about broadening my skill set lately.
That sounds like a great idea! What are you considering?
Maybe taking a cooking class or learning a new language to help with that broadening.
Both sound fun! It’s always good to have new skills.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
expansion
widening
extension
Antonyms
contraction
narrowing
reduction
verb
Definition
To make something wider or more extensive.
Example
The company is broadening its range of products to attract more customers.
Tense Forms
Past: broadened
Past Participle: broadened
Conversation
I’ve been thinking about broadening my skill set lately.
That sounds like a great idea! What do you have in mind?
Maybe I’ll take a cooking class or learn a new language.
Root Explanation
Broadening → It is formed from "broad" (from Old English "brād", meaning wide) and "-en" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating to make or become). The word "broadening" means the act of making something wider or more extensive.
Memory Tip
Think of something becoming 'wide' ('broad') — the '-en' means to make it so. This helps you remember that broadening means to make something wider.
Visually Confused Words
roading
breadearning
brandering