Enlarging on a topic means to provide further details, explanations, or elaborations. The spelling of "enlarge on" follows the phonetic transcription /ɪnˈlɑrdʒ ɒn/, with emphasis on the second syllable. The word "enlarge" comes from the French word "agrandir", meaning to make bigger or larger. In English, "enlarge" refers to making something bigger or expanding it. The preposition "on" indicates to focus or elaborate on a particular topic or detail, making "enlarge on" a useful phrase for delivering more information.
Enlarging on a subject refers to providing additional or more detailed information, explanations, or discussions to further clarify or expand upon a particular topic or idea. When someone is asked to "enlarge on" a subject, they are being prompted to go into greater depth and provide a more comprehensive understanding or analysis of the topic at hand.
In practice, to "enlarge on" something often involves offering more specific details, examples, anecdotes, statistics, or insights that shed light on various aspects or angles related to the subject. This can include expanding on key points, offering further explanations, providing historical context, delving into related concepts or theories, or addressing potential objections or counterarguments. By enlarging on a subject, the speaker or writer aims to provide a fuller, more thorough treatment of the topic, ensuring that the audience gains a more comprehensive understanding or appreciation of the matter at hand.
This phrase is commonly used in academic, professional, or formal settings, where individuals are expected to provide detailed explanations or in-depth analyses. It is also often utilized in interviews, discussions, or presentations, allowing individuals to elaborate on their thoughts or ideas. Enlarging on a subject is a valuable skill as it allows for a deeper exploration of complex topics, facilitates clearer communication, and provides a more comprehensive perspective for the audience or readers.
The phrase enlarge on comes from Old French enlargir, which means to make larger, to increase in size or scope. The word is derived from the Latin word largus, meaning abundant, ample. Over time, enlarge became associated with the idea of expanding or elaborating on a topic or subject, hence the phrase to enlarge on.