improve
To make or become better than before.
Word facts
Definition
To improve means to make something better than it was before, or to become better. Improvement can be gradual or significant and applies to skills, conditions, relationships, or performance.
Usage: Improve is general and flexible. Enhance often suggests adding something to make something better. Refine suggests making something more precise or polished.
Example sentences
- 1
She practised daily to improve her Spanish pronunciation.
- 2
The new software significantly improved the team's productivity.
- 3
His mood improved greatly after a good night's sleep.
Word family
From Old French emprouwer ('to turn to profit'), from em- + prou ('profit, advantage'). To improve was originally to turn something to profitable use.
Im + prove. To prove you are better, you must improve first.
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FAQ
Questions people ask
What is the noun form of improve?
The noun is improvement. Example: The improvement was noticeable within a week.
Can improve be used without an object?
Yes. 'Her health improved' uses improve intransitively. 'She improved her technique' uses it transitively.