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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 Some organizations may also be able to leverage AI to mitigate some of the environmental impacts of doing business—from driving supply chain efficiency to improving logistics and reducing travel. —

Eric Miquelon, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024 That attitude ties in with another of the DOL’s principles, which recommends that AI should be used only to enable workers, which, in turn, could improve their job quality. —

Meghan Hall, Sourcing Journal, 5 Nov. 2024 Take medication as directed even when symptoms seem to improve. —

Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 28 Oct. 2024 By the end of February, my symptoms were starting to improve. —

Alice Oglethorpe, SELF, 28 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for improve