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

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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 In the next five years, the 102-year-old stadium is going to undergo some significant alterations intended to improve fan experience while retaining the venue’s National Historic Landmark status. —

Sam Farmer, Los Angeles Times, 1 Jan. 2025 These design elements are not merely decorative but serve to enhance usability by improving grip, visibility, and user interaction. —

Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 1 Jan. 2025 People are looking for treatments that improve skin health, texture, and quality over time. —

Michelle Lee, People.com, 1 Jan. 2025 The Seattle Mariners are reportedly listening to offers for their starting pitcher Luis Castillo if the deal will improve their big league roster for a 2025 World Series push. —

Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 1 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for improve