Grow vs. Expand

These verbs are synonyms but they differ in the type of object they refer to. Follow the lesson to find out about their similarity and difference.

What is the difference between 'grow' and 'expand'?

Both 'grow' and 'expand' mean to increase or become larger or to make some increase or become larger. However, there is a subtle difference in the object of this increase. This lesson will discuss the similarities and differences between these two verbs.

Similarity

Both 'grow' and 'expand' are ergative verbs that can be both transitive and intransitive. However, 'grow' (in this meaning) is only used transitively when talking about increasing the size of businesses, companies, industries, etc.

The research facility will expand to accommodate more students.

'expand' as a intransitive verbs

The university will expand the research facility to accommodate more students.

'expand' as a transitive verb.

The business is growing steadily.

'grow' as an intransitive verb

They are planning to steadily grow the business.

'grow' as a transitive verb

Difference

'Grow' generally implies an increase in size, quantity, or strength. 'Expand', on the other hand, implies an increase in area, scope, or capacity. Compare the examples:

The company grew its revenue.

The company expanded its operations to other countries.

The city is looking to grow its public transportation system by adding new buses.

The city is looking to expand its public transportation system with new subway lines.

Support for the president is growing by the day.

You cannot say 'support for the president is expanding', as 'grow' refers to an increase in strength in this sentence.

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