Extensive reading encourages learners to read materials that are easy and accessible, often containing basic vocabulary. Many basic words, particularly verbs and prepositions, are polysemous and are understood in cognitive linguistics as having a “central” meaning along with multiple “extended” meanings. This study examines how the central and extended meanings of basic polysemous words are presented in graded readers and leveled readers, comparing them with formal English textbooks used in junior and senior high schools in Japan. Focusing on several basic words (e.g., break, make, run, and take), this study analyzes their usage and provides insights into how extensive reading materials and textbooks can be utilized to foster a more comprehensive understanding of these words.