Finding the Antonym of EXTENSIVE

The question asks us to find the most appropriate antonym for the word EXTENSIVE from the given options. An antonym is a word that means the opposite of another word.

Understanding the word EXTENSIVE

The word EXTENSIVE generally means covering a large area, or large in amount, scope, or scale. It suggests something wide-ranging or broad.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at each option and see if it is the opposite of EXTENSIVE:

• Elaborate: This word means involving many detailed parts or being complicated in design. It refers to complexity or detail, not necessarily size or scope. This is not an antonym of EXTENSIVE.
• Intricate: Similar to elaborate, intricate means very complicated or detailed. It also focuses on complexity, not the opposite of large scope or area. This is not an antonym of EXTENSIVE.
• Lengthy: This word means lasting for a long time or consisting of many items or parts, especially in terms of duration or extent along one dimension. While related to size, it doesn't capture the opposite of broad scope or wide area as effectively as another option might. It's not the best antonym for EXTENSIVE.
• Intensive: This word means concentrated on a single area, subject, or into a short time; characterized by a high degree or intensity. It suggests focus, depth, or concentration within a limited scope, rather than covering a wide area or having a large scale. This is the most appropriate opposite of EXTENSIVE.

Comparing EXTENSIVE and Intensive

Consider these examples:

• An extensive garden covers a large area. An intensive farming method might focus heavily on maximizing yield in a small area.
• An extensive study covers many different topics broadly. An intensive study focuses deeply on one specific topic.

Here, Intensive clearly represents the opposite concept of EXTENSIVE.

Conclusion

Based on the analysis, the most appropriate antonym for EXTENSIVE is Intensive.

Revision Table: Antonyms of EXTENSIVE

Additional Information on Vocabulary

Understanding shades of meaning is key to vocabulary questions. While some words might seem related, like 'extensive' and 'lengthy', their primary antonyms differ based on their core meaning. 'Extensive' emphasizes breadth, area, or scope, while 'lengthy' emphasizes duration or linear extent. 'Intensive', on the other hand, emphasizes depth or concentration within a limited area, directly opposing the idea of being spread out or broad.

Vocabulary building involves learning not just definitions but also synonyms, antonyms, and how words are used in context.