Cool MateBoost
UK /["/buːst/","/buːsts/","/ˈbuːstɪd/","/ˈbuːstɪŋ/"]/US /["/buːst/","/buːsts/","/ˈbuːstɪd/","/ˈbuːstɪŋ/"]/
Definition
to make something increase, or become better or more successful
In simple words: to increase or improve something
Examples
- to boost exports/profits
- to boost productivity/spending
- The movie helped boost her screen career.
- to **boost somebody’s confidence/morale**
- Getting that job did a lot to **boost his ego** *(= make him feel more confident)*.
- The new service helped boost pre-tax profits by 10%.
- The total was boosted to nearly $200 by donations from parents.
- an attempt to boost the number of barn owls living in the wild
- to boost her chances of winning next month's election
- A last-minute rush by Christmas shoppers boosted sales.
Usage notes
Used in various contexts, such as improving performance or enhancing qualities. Avoid in highly formal contexts.
Grammar pattern
boost + object
Memory hint
Think of a rocket boosting into the sky—it's increasing its height!
Collocations
- considerably
- dramatically
- greatly
- help (to)
- to
Synonyms
- enhance
- increase
- improve
- elevate
- amplify
Antonyms
- decrease
- diminish
- reduce
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'boast' – they have different meanings.
- Using 'boost' with uncountable nouns incorrectly.
- Confusing transitive use of 'boost' with intransitive.