C1verb1K

Upgrade

UK /["/ˌʌpˈɡreɪd/","/ˌʌpˈɡreɪdz/","/ˌʌpˈɡreɪdɪd/","/ˌʌpˈɡreɪdɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˌʌpˈɡreɪd//ˈʌpɡreɪd/","/ˌʌpˈɡreɪdz//ˈʌpɡreɪdz/","/ˌʌpˈɡreɪdɪd//ˈʌpɡreɪdɪd/","/ˌʌpˈɡreɪdɪŋ//ˈʌpɡreɪdɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to make a machine, computer system, etc. more powerful and efficient; to start using a new and better version of a machine, system, etc.

In simple words: To make something better or to improve it.

Examples

  • We are constantly upgrading our software to meet customers' needs.
  • customers who want to upgrade from version 4.2 to version 4.5
  • Users can easily upgrade to the new version.
  • to upgrade the town’s leisure facilities
  • The towpath was upgraded for use by cyclists.
  • On the flight back, we were upgraded to business class.

Usage notes

Use 'upgrade' when talking about improving technology, services, or skills. It's appropriate in both casual and professional settings, but avoid it in overly formal writing.

Grammar pattern

upgrade + object

Memory hint

Think of a plane taking off to 'upgrade' to a higher altitude.

Collocations

  • significantly
  • substantially
  • constantly
  • from
  • to
  • with

Synonyms

  • improve
  • enhance
  • boost
  • refine
  • advance

Antonyms

  • downgrade
  • decline
  • decrease

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'downgrade' which means to make worse.
  • Using 'upgrade' as a noun instead of a verb.
  • Mixing up 'upgrade' with 'update', which has a different meaning.