far reaching - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
far reaching Word Meanings
- having a wide range or influence
- extending over a large area
- affecting many different areas or aspects
far reaching Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
far reaching Word Etymology
far = at a great distance, reaching = extending or stretching. Origin: Old English → Latin → Modern English. Imagine a tree with branches reaching far and wide across a landscape, symbolizing influence in many areas. This image helps remember 'far-reaching' as something that extends its effects far from its origin.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Far-reaching describes effects or influence that extend well beyond the origin, often across fields, regions, or time. It can apply to policies, plans, discoveries, or trends that have consequences in education, the economy, culture, or the environment. In English, it is frequently used with nouns like impact, implications, reform, or consequences. It can describe both tangible expansion (a far-reaching network) and abstract reach (far-reaching ideas). The expression emphasizes breadth and long-lasting reach rather than mere distance. Learners should note that far-reaching does not simply mean large in size, and it is less about how common something is and more about how far its influence extends.
Usage Reminders
- Far-reaching describes effects or influence beyond the origin
- It is commonly placed before the noun: a far-reaching policy, far-reaching implications
- It can describe long-term consequences, not just immediate ones
- Use with impact, reform, or consequences to show breadth of influence
- Balance with precise nouns to avoid vague writing
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing far-reaching with having just a large physical distance
- Using far-reaching to mean 'widespread' without the sense of long-range influence
- Thinking it can only describe policies, not ideas or plans
- Forgetting it pairs with abstract nouns like impact, implications, or consequences
- Using far-reaching in place of 'extensive' when the emphasis is breadth of influence
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- 1. Pair with impact, implications, or consequences to show scope
- 2. Use before a noun: a far-reaching policy, a far-reaching reform
- 3. Distinguish from widespread (mass, common) vs far-reaching (breadth of influence)
- 4. Combine with time cues to emphasize duration (long-term, lasting)
- 5. Practice with both abstract ideas and concrete policies
- 6. Check collocations in big texts to sound natural
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'far reaching' mean?
A.Limited in scope
B.Only relevant locally
C.Having a wide impact
D.Of minor importance
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct usage of 'far reaching' in a sentence.
A.The far reaching changes affected many people.
B.The cat was far reaching on the roof.
C.He made a far reaching decision about his lunch.
D.Her far reaching attitude made her popular.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'far reaching'?
A.Limited
B.Expansive
C.Narrow
D.Minor
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'far reaching'?
A.Broad
B.Narrow
C.Comprehensive
D.Inclusive
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where the impact was significant?
A.The new policy had significant impact on public health.
B.Last weekend's event was enjoyable for all.
C.The far reaching effects of climate change are increasingly evident.
D.The local festival was well-attended.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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