A1verb1K

Improve

UK /["/ɪmˈpruːv/","/ɪmˈpruːvz/","/ɪmˈpruːvd/","/ɪmˈpruːvɪŋ/"]/US /["/ɪmˈpruːv/","/ɪmˈpruːvz/","/ɪmˈpruːvd/","/ɪmˈpruːvɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to become better than before; to make something/somebody better than before

In simple words: To make something better.

Examples

  • I want to improve my English speaking skills.
  • You can improve your health by exercising regularly.
  • We need to find ways to improve our customer service.
  • She took a course to improve her writing.
  • He practices every day to improve as a musician.

Usage notes

Use 'improve' in both formal and informal contexts when talking about enhancing skills, performance, or situations. Avoid using it in overly casual or slangy conversations.

Grammar pattern

improve + object

Memory hint

Think of 'in' and 'move' — you move something to a better state.

Collocations

  • considerably
  • dramatically
  • drastically
  • continue to
  • strive to
  • try to
  • aimed at improving something
  • an attempt to improve something
  • an effort to improve something

Synonyms

  • enhance
  • boost
  • upgrade
  • refine
  • ameliorate

Antonyms

  • deteriorate
  • worsen
  • decline

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'improve' with 'improvement' in sentence structure.
  • Using 'improve' without an object (it needs something to improve).
  • Incorrectly stating 'improve of' instead of just 'improve'.