The difference between Expand and Spread out

When used as verbs, expand means to change (something) from a smaller form and/or size to a larger one, whereas spread out means become further apart.

Spread out is also adjective with the meaning: far apart, not close to each other - far apart, extended over an expanse of space or time.

check bellow for the other definitions of Expand and Spread out

  1. Expand as a verb (transitive):

    To change (something) from a smaller form and/or size to a larger one; to spread out or lay open.

    Examples:

    "You can expand this compact umbrella to cover a large table."

  2. Expand as a verb (transitive):

    To increase the extent, number, volume or scope of (something).

    Examples:

    "A flower expands its leaves."

  3. Expand as a verb (transitive):

    To express (something) at length and/or in detail.

  4. Expand as a verb (transitive, algebra):

    To rewrite (an expression) as a longer, yet equivalent sum of terms.

    Examples:

    "Use the binomial theorem to expand (x+1)<sup>4</sup> to x<sup>4</sup> + 4x<sup>3</sup> + 6x<sup>2</sup> + 4x + 1."

  5. Expand as a verb (transitive, arithmetic):

    To multiply both the numerator and the denominator of a fraction by the same natural number yielding a fraction of equal value

  6. Expand as a verb (intransitive):

    To change from a smaller form/size to a larger one.

    Examples:

    "Many materials expand when heated."

    "This compact umbrella expands to cover a large table."

  7. Expand as a verb (intransitive):

    To increase in extent, number, volume or scope.

  8. Expand as a verb (intransitive):

    To speak or write at length or in detail.

    Examples:

    "He expanded on his plans for the business."

  9. Expand as a verb (intransitive):

    To feel generous or optimistic.

  1. Spread out as a verb (idiomatic, intransitive):

    Become further apart.

    Examples:

    "The police spread out to search a wider area."

  2. Spread out as a verb (idiomatic, transitive):

    To place items further apart.

    Examples:

    "'Spread the cards out and then turn two of them over at random."

  1. Spread out as an adjective:

    Far apart, not close to each other - far apart, extended over an expanse of space or time.

    Examples:

    "synonyms: spaced out thin Thesaurus:diffuse"

  2. Spread out as an adjective:

    Covering a wide area of space or long period of time.

    Examples:

    "synonyms: widespread"

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