extend the distance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extend the distance" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means to increase or elongate the distance between two points or objects. Example: The marathon runners had to extend the distance of their race due to construction on the original route.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

The Dons missed a chance to extend the distance to third-placed Motherwell.

The Guardian - Sport

Zebras may extend the distance at which they can direct their movement after improving their knowledge of the local environment.

Animal Behaviour

Walking breaks are used to help ease you into running and to gradually extend the distance you cover and the time spent on your feet.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The superconducting filters extend the distance at which a tower can pick up a cell phone signal and increase the number of calls that can be handled simultaneously.

The New York Times - Science

The higher rate capability should also make for speedier charging, allowing top-offs between trips that extend the distance a vehicle could go between overnight recharges.

MIT Technology Review

Though the systems are designed to allow a card to be read only in close proximity, researchers have found that they can extend the distance.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Extending the distance between oscillating and fixed electrodes is an effective way to reduce damping.

Sensors and Actuators A: Physical

In 2006, Suffolk passed a law extending the distance for all sex offenders to a quarter mile.

The New York Times

Since the first experimental demonstration of quantum teleportation — a central component of quantum communication and quantum computation — physicists have gradually extended the distance over which the quantum information is distributed.

Nature

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS--Physicists and engineers have greatly extended the distance that tiny, fleeting waves of electrons can travel on the surface of a metal.

Science Magazine

Begin with tosses only a foot away, gradually extending the distance.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about physical changes, use "extend the distance" to describe tangible increases in length or separation, such as in sports or engineering contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "extend the distance" when referring to abstract concepts like time or emotional states; instead, opt for more fitting phrases such as "prolong the duration" or "increase the emotional gap".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extend the distance" functions primarily as a verb phrase acting upon a noun. It describes the action of making a distance longer or greater. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, highlighting its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "extend the distance" is grammatically correct and functions to describe the act of making a distance longer, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It is most frequently used in scientific and news contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. While it is not an extremely common phrase, understanding its proper usage can improve clarity in writing, particularly when describing spatial or planned increases. Alternatives like "increase the separation" or "lengthen the gap" may be suitable depending on the specific context. The phrase demonstrates good linguistic quality and is contextually relevant, making it a useful addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increase the separation

Focuses on the act of making things further apart.

lengthen the gap

Emphasizes making a space longer.

expand the reach

Highlights the act of making something accessible over a wider area.

broaden the scope

Shifts focus to increasing the extent of something, not necessarily physical distance.

widen the span

Focuses on making something cover a larger width.

enlarge the interval

Specifies increasing the amount of time or space between events or objects.

stretch the range

Suggests expanding the limits within which something operates or exists.

prolong the duration

Relates to increasing the length of time something lasts rather than physical distance.

magnify the area

Focuses on enlarging a surface or region.

amplify the effect

Shifts focus to increasing the impact or consequence of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "extend the distance" when describing actions that increase the separation between two points. For example, "The engineer aimed to "extend the distance" between the bridge's supports to accommodate heavier loads."

What's a good alternative to "extend the distance"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "increase the separation", "lengthen the gap", or "expand the reach".

Is it correct to say "extent the distance" instead of "extend the distance"?

No, "extent the distance" is not grammatically correct. The correct phrasing is ""extend the distance"", where "extend" is a verb meaning to make something longer or further.

When should I use "extend the distance" versus "increase the distance"?

While both phrases are similar, ""extend the distance"" often implies a deliberate or planned action to lengthen something, whereas "increase the distance" is a more general term for making something further apart. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.