Translation guide
The English verb 'extend' covers several distinct meanings: making something longer in space or time, stretching out a body part, offering something, and reaching a certain scope. Japanese uses different verbs for each of these meanings.
To increase the length of a physical object, such as a table, a road, or a cable.
General verb for lengthening something flexible or linear, like a rope, hair, or a line.
I extended the table so that eight people could sit.
Formal verb for extending something like a road, railway, or deadline. Often used in official contexts.
There is a plan to extend the subway line to the suburbs.
Simple phrase meaning 'to make longer'. Casual and easy to use.
I want to extend this cord.
To increase the length of time for something, like a deadline, a stay, or a subscription.
Standard verb for extending a time period. Used for deadlines, visas, contracts, etc.
I would like to extend my visa stay.
Casual alternative to 延長する. Often used in daily conversation.
To prolong something, often with a negative nuance (e.g., a meeting, a war).
To stretch out a limb or part of the body.
To offer or give something such as help, an invitation, or a welcome.
Literally 'to extend one's hand', used for offering help, support, or a hand.
I extended a helping hand to those in need.
Formal verb for offering services, information, etc.
To offer or propose something, often used in formal situations.
To reach or cover a certain area, scope, or range.
To reach, extend to, or cover a certain area or scope. Often used in formal or written contexts.
His influence extends nationwide.
Intransitive verb meaning to spread or extend over an area.
To extend over a period or range, often used with time or scope.
伸ばす (のばす) is for physical lengthening of flexible things or body parts, while 延長する (えんちょうする) is for extending time or linear infrastructure like roads. Using the wrong one can sound odd.
to grow one's hair long
Avoid directly translating 'extend' as エクステンドする. It is not natural Japanese. Use the appropriate verb based on the meaning.
締め切りを一週間延ばしてもらえますか？
Could you extend the deadline by a week?
He unnecessarily extended the argument.
両腕を広げて、深呼吸した。
I extended both arms and took a deep breath.
We extend the best service to our customers.
He extended an offer of help himself.
砂漠が地平線まで広がっている。
The desert extends to the horizon.
This festival extends over several days.