B2verb2K

Restore

UK /["/rɪˈstɔː(r)/","/rɪˈstɔːz/","/rɪˈstɔːd/","/rɪˈstɔːrɪŋ/"]/US /["/rɪˈstɔːr/","/rɪˈstɔːrz/","/rɪˈstɔːrd/","/rɪˈstɔːrɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to bring back a situation or feeling that existed before

In simple words: to bring something back to a better condition or position

Examples

  • The government plans to restore the historical building to its original design.
  • After the accident, the doctors worked hard to restore her health.
  • The artist was able to restore the painting to its former glory.
  • To restore harmony in the group, we need to address the conflicts openly.
  • They spent the summer working to restore the old car they found in the garage.

Usage notes

Use 'restore' in contexts where something needs to be fixed or returned to its original state. Common in discussions about art, technology, and nature. Avoid in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

restore + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'restored' painting looking fresh and new — restore means to make it look like new again.

Collocations

  • quickly
  • soon
  • need to
  • attempt to
  • seek to
  • to
  • an attempt to restore something
  • an effort to restore something
  • be aimed at restoring something
  • completely
  • fully
  • partially
  • to
  • newly restored
  • recently restored
  • restore something to its former glory

Synonyms

  • reintroduce

Antonyms

  • deteriorate
  • damage
  • destroy

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'store' — they have different meanings.
  • Used incorrectly with 'to' instead of 'to restore' — e.g., 'restore to health' instead of 'restore health.'