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adj. 1. So large in scope or content as to include much: a comprehensive history of the revolution. 2. Marked by or showing extensive understanding: comprehensive knowledge. n. often comprehensives An examination or series of examinations covering the entire field of major study, given to a student in the final year of undergraduate or graduate study. [Late Latin comprehēnsīvus, conceivable, from Latin comprehēnsus, past participle of comprehendere, to comprehend; see COMPREHEND.] com′pre·hensive·ly adv. com′pre·hensive·ness n. |
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