What does it mean to extend?

To extend means to span an interval of distance or time. This concept entails increasing the range or duration of something, whether it's physically stretching an object or temporally prolonging an event or period. For example, if you extend a deadline, you are making it last longer; if you extend your arm, you are reaching out further.

The idea behind extending is fundamentally about growth and expansion rather than reduction or limitation. This aligns perfectly with the meaning of the chosen answer, as it captures the essence of what it means to stretch or increase the capacity or reach of something. Meanwhile, other terms like "shorten," "limit," or "retract" imply a decrease or reduction, which contrasts sharply with the concept of extending. This distinction helps underline the appropriateness of the correct choice.