enlarge
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ɪnˈlɑːrdʒ/
KK: /ɪnˈlɑrdʒ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To become bigger in size or amount.
Example
The balloon will enlarge when you blow air into it.
Tense Forms
Past: enlarged
Past Participle: enlarged
Conversation
Have you noticed how much the plant has enlarged since we put it by the window?
Yeah, it really loves the sunlight!
I think we should move it back a little before it gets too enlarged.
Good idea! We don’t want it to outgrow the pot.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
expand
increase
broaden
Antonyms
shrink
diminish
contract
transitive verb
Definition
To make something bigger or to increase its size.
Example
The artist decided to enlarge the painting to make it more visible in the gallery.
Tense Forms
Past: enlarged
Past Participle: enlarged
Conversation
I think we should enlarge the garden space this year.
That sounds like a great idea! We could add more flowers.
Exactly! It would really enlarge the beauty of the yard.
Root Explanation
Enlarge → It is formed from "en-" (meaning to cause to be) and "larger" (from Latin "largus", meaning large or abundant). The word "enlarge" means to cause something to become larger or to increase in size.
Memory Tip
Think of 'causing to be' ('en-') 'large' ('largus') — that's why enlarge means to make something bigger.
Visually Confused Words
unlarge
large
enage
unenlarged
ensilage
enclaret
encharge
enargite