Definition of Extol
Quick Meaning of Extol
To praise someone or something very enthusiastically and at great length. More intense than 'praise'—you really express how great something is.
Detailed Definition of Extol
To praise someone or something enthusiastically and with great admiration, often at length and publicly.
How to Pronounce Extol
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: ik-STOLE. The 'ex' sounds like 'ik', and 'tol' rhymes with 'roll'. Final 'l' is clear.
Watch out: Some learners stress the first syllable (EX-tol) or mispronounce the middle vowel. Correct: ik-STOLE (second syllable, 'o' as in 'roll').
Origin and Etymology of Extol
From Latin 'extollere' (to lift up). 'Ex-' (out) + 'tollere' (to lift). Entered English in 16th century; originally meant 'lift up' before developing praise meaning.
How to Use Extol in a Sentence
Each example shows “extol” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The media extolled the benefits of the new renewable energy technology.”
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“Economists have long extolled the advantages of free trade policies.”
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“Travel guides extol the beauty and cultural richness of the ancient city.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Extol
Common Synonyms for Extol
Smart Synonyms for Extol — When to Use Each
- laud
- Formal praise; slightly less enthusiastic than extol
- glorify
- Emphatic praise; suggests exaggeration or idealization
- champion
- Active support; emphasizes promoting a cause
Common Collocations with Extol
These phrases pair with “extol” in everyday English:
- extol the virtues
- extol the benefits
- extol the merits
- extol the value
- widely extolled
Common Mistakes When Using Extol
Even fluent speakers slip up with “extol”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: They extolled to increase sales through marketing.
- ✓ Correct: They extolled the product to increase sales. / They promoted the product to increase sales.
- Why: Don't use 'to' infinitive after 'extol'. Use 'extol' + object noun directly.
- ✗ Wrong: The doctor extolled the patient about healthy diet.
- ✓ Correct: The doctor extolled the benefits of a healthy diet. / The doctor praised the patient for a healthy diet.
- Why: 'Extol' is not followed by 'about'. Use 'extol' + object (what you're praising).
- ✗ Wrong: Many experts extoll the importance of this research.
- ✓ Correct: Many experts extol the importance of this research.
- Why: 'Extol' has one 'l' in base form. Past tense 'extolled' has double 'l' (British spelling).
Other Forms of Extol
- Noun: extolment
- Verb: extol
- Adjective: extollable
Frequently Asked Questions About Extol
What is the meaning of "Extol"?
To praise someone or something very enthusiastically and at great length. More intense than 'praise'—you really express how great something is.
How do you pronounce "Extol"?
The IPA is /ɪkˈstəʊl/. Stress the second syllable: ik-STOLE. The 'ex' sounds like 'ik', and 'tol' rhymes with 'roll'. Final 'l' is clear.
What part of speech is "Extol"?
"Extol" is a verb at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Extol"?
Common synonyms include praise, laud, celebrate.
How do you use "Extol" in a sentence?
For example: "The media extolled the benefits of the new renewable energy technology."