the full extent of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the full extent of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the complete range or scope of something, often in discussions about impact, consequences, or understanding. Example: "We need to assess the full extent of the damage caused by the storm before making any repairs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That's not the full extent of his devotion, though.

The New York Times

And they probably don't know the full extent of it.

The New York Times

I don't remember the full extent of it".

The New Yorker

That is the full extent of his involvement.

The New York Times

The full extent of those ties have never been revealed.

The New York Times

The full extent of the deception is not yet clear.

The New York Times

Only Electra feels the full extent of the trauma.

The New Yorker

The full extent of the United Nations' role is unclear.

The New York Times

We just don't know the full extent of it".

The Guardian

The full extent of Mr. Mineo's injuries are still unclear.

The New York Times

We don't know the full extent of the injuries.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the full extent of", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being measured or assessed. Providing specific details or examples can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "the full extent of" when only a partial understanding is available. Indicate uncertainty by stating that the full extent is "unknown" or "not yet clear" if applicable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the full extent of" functions as a determiner phrase, modifying a noun to specify the complete scope or degree of something. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and commonly used in English. It frequently introduces a noun phrase that elaborates on the aspect being fully measured or understood.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the full extent of" is a versatile phrase used to denote the complete scope or degree of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and very common, especially in news and media contexts. While interchangeable with alternatives like "the complete scope of" or "the full magnitude of", the best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what is being measured and avoid implying complete knowledge when information is still uncertain.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the full magnitude of

This alternative emphasizes the size or importance of something, rather than its complete range.

the complete scope of

This phrase highlights the comprehensiveness and range of something.

the entire range of

Focuses on the complete spectrum or variety involved.

the full degree of

Emphasizes the intensity or level to which something exists.

the total impact of

This alternative specifically refers to the overall effect or consequence.

the whole measure of

This phrase speaks of assessing or understanding the complete quantity or degree.

the overall effect of

Focuses on the resulting outcome or influence.

the sum total of

Implies gathering everything together to understand the whole.

the maximum reach of

Highlights the furthest point or influence something can achieve.

the comprehensive understanding of

This alternative refers to a thorough and complete grasp of a subject.

FAQs

How can I use "the full extent of" in a sentence?

You can use "the full extent of" to describe the complete range, impact, or degree of something. For example, "We don't yet know "the full extent of" the damage caused by the hurricane".

What are some alternatives to "the full extent of"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "the complete scope of", "the entire range of", or "the full magnitude of".

Is it correct to say "the full extent of the problem"?

Yes, "the full extent of the problem" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase. It indicates the complete scope or severity of the issue.

What's the difference between "the full extent of" and "the complete picture of"?

"The full extent of" typically refers to the degree, impact, or range of something, while "the complete picture of" implies having all the information necessary to understand something fully. Although they're not perfectly interchangeable, in several contexts they can be used instead of each other.