IMPROVE Synonyms: 57 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'improve' distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of improve are ameliorate , better , and help . While all these words mean "to make more acceptable or to bring nearer a standard," improve and better are general and interchangeable and apply to what can be made better whether it is good or bad. // measures to further improve the quality of medical care // immigrants hoping to better their lot

Q: When is it sensible to use 'ameliorate' instead of 'improve'?

Although the words ameliorate and improve have much in common, ameliorate implies making more tolerable or acceptable conditions that are hard to endure. // tried to ameliorate the lives of people in the tenements

Q: When would 'help' be a good substitute for 'improve'?

While the synonyms help and improve are close in meaning, help implies a bettering that still leaves room for improvement. // a coat of paint would help that house

improve

verb

im-ˈprüv

Definition of improve next

as in to enhance

to make better a little salt would improve this bland food

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word improve distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of improve are ameliorate, better, and help. While all these words mean "to make more acceptable or to bring nearer a standard," improve and better are general and interchangeable and apply to what can be made better whether it is good or bad.

measures to further improve the quality of medical care

immigrants hoping to better their lot

When is it sensible to use ameliorate instead of improve?

Although the words ameliorate and improve have much in common, ameliorate implies making more tolerable or acceptable conditions that are hard to endure.

tried to ameliorate the lives of people in the tenements

When would help be a good substitute for improve?

While the synonyms help and improve are close in meaning, help implies a bettering that still leaves room for improvement.

a coat of paint would help that house

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of improve However, the Patriots, according to team sources, recognized that the on-field product was improving and becoming harder to play. —

Jeff Howe, The Athletic, 14 Jan. 2025 Doing regular physical activity, such as walking, cycling, or strength training, to improve insulin sensitivity and help manage weight gain (as obesity is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes). —

Carisa Brewster, Verywell Health, 14 Jan. 2025 This rule is another opportunity to improve our air quality and protect public health while supporting a thriving restaurant industry. —

Michael Seilback, New York Daily News, 14 Jan. 2025 An analysis that reviewed 12 studies found curcumin improved joint pain and function.14 A different review of studies concluded curcumin may be more effective for joint pain relief than NSAIDs.19 Curcumin is also widely regarded as safe. —

Ashley Wong, Health, 2 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for improve