ramify
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈræməˌfaɪ/
KK: /ˈræməˌfaɪ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To develop or spread out into branches or parts, often leading to more complex situations or consequences.
Example
The discussion began to ramify into several different topics.
Tense Forms
Past: ramified
Past Participle: ramified
Conversation
Have you noticed how our plans seem to ramify every time we discuss them?
Totally! It starts with one idea and suddenly there are a million details.
Right? I feel like we always end up complicating things more than we intend to.
Exactly! It's like our brainstorming sessions just keep branching out.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
branch
diverge
extend
Antonyms
converge
unify
simplify
transitive verb
Definition
To cause something to split into branches or to develop in a way that creates different parts or consequences.
Example
The new policy will ramify into various sectors of the economy.
Tense Forms
Past: ramified
Past Participle: ramified
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how our plans can ramify into different paths?
Yeah, it's interesting how one decision can lead us in so many directions.
Exactly! I often wonder how my choices will ramify in the future.
Root Explanation
Ramify → It is formed from "ramus" (meaning branch) and the suffix "-fy" (meaning to make or to cause to be). The word "ramify" means to cause to branch out or to spread into branches.
Memory Tip
Imagine a tree that 'makes branches' ('ramus') when it grows — that's how you remember that 'ramify' means to branch out.
Visually Confused Words
ratify
rami
raif