extend the boundaries

USAGE SUMMARY

"extend the boundaries" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is growing, changing, or developing beyond a particular limit or range of limits. For example: "The school is looking to extend the boundaries of the curriculum to include more science subjects."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Use software to extend the boundaries of what you do.

Harvard Business Review

Subsequent Amis novels extend the boundaries of irritation to form something approaching an empire.

The Guardian - Books

They're creating new forms that technically and aesthetically extend the boundaries of architecture".

The New York Times

But geologists say the veins may extend the boundaries of state land onto private property.

The New York Times - Science

Sometimes, they will extend the boundaries to include "creative talent" or "knowledge workers".

Harvard Business Review

"Walking has enabled me to extend the boundaries of sculpture", Mr Long says.

The Economist

"I knew I could connect the dots too and extend the boundaries of knowledge," she said.

Princeton University

He is also pushing to extend the boundaries of the Hamilton Heights Historic District, among other concerns.

The New York Times

Pharmaceutical, biological and electrophysiological treatments that augment neuroplasticity are being explored to further extend the boundaries of poststroke rehabilitation.

Nature

The restless endeavour to extend the boundaries of expression in Western art produces continuous international stylistic changes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

On the other hand, in CFD research aims to extend the boundaries of practical engineering use in "non-traditional" areas.

International Journal of Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "extend the boundaries", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific boundaries are being expanded, whether they are geographical, conceptual, or metaphorical.

Common error

Avoid using "extend the boundaries" without specifying what boundaries are being extended. Vague usage weakens the impact and clarity of your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extend the boundaries" functions as a verb phrase where "extend" is the verb and "the boundaries" is the direct object. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

30%

Science

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "extend the boundaries" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to describe the expansion or widening of limits across various domains. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. Predominantly found in News & Media, Academic, and Science contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. Related phrases include "expand the limits" and "broaden the scope", offering stylistic alternatives. When employing this phrase, clarity is key: explicitly state the specific boundaries being extended to avoid vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expand the limits

Focuses on the act of expansion rather than specifically referencing boundaries.

broaden the scope

Replaces "boundaries" with "scope", implying a widening of reach or influence.

widen the scope

Similar to "broaden the scope" but with a slightly different verb.

push the limits

Shifts the focus from expansion to testing or exceeding existing limitations.

transcend the limits

Emphasizes surpassing or going beyond limitations, suggesting a higher level of achievement.

expand the domain

Uses the word "domain" in place of boundaries, indicating an expansion of territory or control.

exceed the parameters

Uses more technical or formal language, replacing "boundaries" with "parameters".

enlarge the sphere

Employs a more figurative or abstract term, "sphere", to represent the area of influence.

enlarge the territory

Relates more to the concept of physical space, but still pertains to expansion.

broaden horizons

More abstract and refers to expanding one's perspective or opportunities.

FAQs

How can I use "extend the boundaries" in a sentence?

You can use "extend the boundaries" to describe expanding limits in various contexts. For example, "The company aims to "extend the boundaries" of its market share" or "Scientists are working to "extend the boundaries" of human knowledge".

What are some alternatives to "extend the boundaries"?

Alternatives include phrases like "expand the limits", "broaden the scope", or "push the limits", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "extend the boundaries" or "expand the boundaries"?

Both "extend the boundaries" and "expand the boundaries" are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice depends on stylistic preference, though "extend" often implies a more gradual or deliberate expansion, while "expand" can suggest a more rapid or general increase.

In what contexts is "extend the boundaries" most appropriate?

"Extend the boundaries" is suitable in contexts discussing growth, innovation, or expansion, whether in geographical terms (e.g., ""extend the boundaries" of a park") or abstract concepts (e.g., ""extend the boundaries" of knowledge").