Improvement
/ɪmˈpruːvmənt/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe act of making something better; an instance of this.
/ɪmˈpruːvmənt/
The act or process of making something better.
The new software update brought a significant improvement in speed and performance.
💡 Simply: Like when you get a better grade on a test, or when your team plays better in a game. It's about making things better!
👶 For kids: Making something better.
More Examples
She made several improvements to the garden, adding new plants and pathways.
The company is always seeking improvement in their customer service.
How It's Used
"Companies often focus on process improvements to increase efficiency."
"The teacher noticed a significant improvement in the student's writing skills."
"After the surgery, there was a noticeable improvement in the patient's condition."
A thing that makes something better; an enhancement.
/ɪmˈpruːvmənt/
An enhancement to something.
The city invested in infrastructure improvements, such as new roads and bridges.
💡 Simply: Adding something to something else to make it better, like putting new tires on your car to help it drive more smoothly.
👶 For kids: Something that makes a thing better.
More Examples
The building underwent extensive renovations, including a new roof and energy-efficient improvements.
The company is looking for suggestions for product improvements.
How It's Used
"The homeowners made several improvements to their property, including a new deck and landscaping."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
room for improvement
The possibility or opportunity for something to be made better.
"While the presentation was good, there's still room for improvement."
From Middle English *improvemen*, from Old French *enprouvement* (proving, advancement), from *enprouver* (to improve, prove), from Late Latin *improbare* (to prove, improve).
The word 'improvement' has been used since the late 14th century and has consistently referred to the act of making something better or being made better.
Memory tip
Imagine you are trying to make a perfect cake. Every step you take to adjust and make it better is an improvement.