Meaning & use
an extension
Last updated
Meanings
nouncountable
Extra time allowed beyond an original deadline.
Grammar: Often followed by 'of' or 'to': an extension of the deadline, an extension to the deadline.
Patterns
- an extension of something
- an extension to something
- give someone an extension
I asked my teacher for an extension on the essay.
The boss gave us a two-day extension.
They granted an extension of the visa.
nouncountable
A part added to something to make it longer or bigger.
Grammar: Often used for buildings, cables, or hair.
Patterns
- an extension to something
- build an extension
They built an extension to the kitchen.
We need an extension cord for the lamp.
She got hair extensions for the wedding.
nouncountable
An additional telephone line connected to a main one.
Grammar: Often used with 'on': 'Call me on extension 204.'
Patterns
- on extension number
- dial an extension
Please dial extension 45 for customer service.
Her extension is busy right now.
Word forms
| plural | extensions |
|---|
Common combinations
- ask for an extension
- He asked for an extension on the project.
- grant an extension
- The bank granted an extension of the loan.
- build an extension
- They plan to build an extension to the house.
- extension cord
- Use an extension cord to reach the outlet.
Synonyms and how they differ
- addition
- An addition is anything added; an extension is specifically added to make something longer or bigger.
- delay
- A delay is a period of waiting; an extension is extra time given officially.
Opposites
Word family
Commonly confused: an extension or extent?
an extension vs extent
Extent means how large or serious something is; extension means added length or time.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'an extension' correctly?
Choose one answer.
The common phrase is 'an extension on a deadline.' 'Extension of' is possible but less natural here; 'for' and 'to' do not fit this context.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “an extension”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.