umfangreich
extensive
Large in terms of scope, content, or extent; very comprehensive or detailed.
EXAMPLE
Die Polizei hat umfangreiche Ermittlungen in dem Fall eingeleitet.
The police have launched extensive investigations into the case.
umfangreich
extensive / corpulent
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Meanings
umfangreich
corpulent
Having a large body circumference; corpulent or stout. This meaning is rarer and often slightly elevated or outdated.
EXAMPLE
Der umfangreiche Herr trug einen eleganten, aber zu engen Anzug.
The corpulent gentleman wore an elegant but too-tight suit.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is made up of 'Umfang' (scope, circumference) and 'reich' (rich). So it literally means 'rich in scope/circumference,' which can refer both to abstract things and to body circumference.
EXAMPLE
Für das Projekt ist eine umfangreiche Recherche notwendig.
Extensive research is necessary for the project.
Typical collocations
This adjective often describes abstract nouns. Common combinations are: umfangreiches Wissen (extensive knowledge), eine umfangreiche Sammlung (an extensive collection), ein umfangreiches Angebot (an extensive range), or eine umfangreiche Analyse (an extensive analysis).
EXAMPLE
Das Museum besitzt eine umfangreiche Sammlung moderner Kunst.
The museum has an extensive collection of modern art.
Context clue
The meaning 'corpulent' is rare and somewhat outdated. You can recognize it when the adjective refers directly to a person's build. In almost all other cases, the meaning 'extensive' or 'detailed' is intended.
EXAMPLE
Der Roman beschreibt einen älteren, umfangreichen Herrn mit Schnurrbart.
The novel describes an older, corpulent gentleman with a mustache.
Compare with
umfangreich vs massiv
massive / solid
Both words can describe a large scale or quantity. „Umfangreich“ mainly emphasizes that something includes many parts or extends a long way, while „massiv“ focuses more on severity and force. Use „umfangreich“ for scope and „massiv“ for intensity.
umfangreich
Die Stadt musste wegen des Unwetters umfangreiche Reparaturen planen.
The city had to plan extensive repairs because of the storm.
massiv
Die Stadt musste wegen des Unwetters massive Schäden melden.
The city had to report massive damage because of the storm.
In real life
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