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Antonyms for improve

Grammar : Verb
Spell : im-proov
Phonetic Transcription : ɪmˈpruv


Definition of improve

Origin :
  • late 15c., "to use to one's profit, to increase (income)," from Anglo-French emprouwer "to turn to profit" (late 13c.), from Old French en-, causative prefix, + prou "profit," from Latin prode "advantageous" (see proud). Spelling with -v- was rare before 17c. Meaning "to raise to a better quality or condition" first recorded 1610s. Phrase improve the occasion retains the etymological sense. Meaning "to turn land to profit" (by clearing it, erecting buildings, etc.) was in Anglo-French (13c.) and was retained in the American colonies.
  • verb make or become better
Example sentences :
  • So long as we feel unable to improve on this organisation we shall have these inequalities.
  • Extract from : « The Conquest of Fear » by Basil King
  • It commands us to assist our neighbor to improve and protect his own.
  • Extract from : « An Explanation of Luther's Small Catechism » by Joseph Stump
  • When things were so very good as they were at that time, why try to improve them?
  • Extract from : « Her Father's Daughter » by Gene Stratton-Porter
  • I daresay it isn't as good as I thought it was, but I'll improve.
  • Extract from : « The Foolish Lovers » by St. John G. Ervine
  • My reading in the bible, now, was not for the stories, but seriously to improve my mind and morals.
  • Extract from : « Ned Myers » by James Fenimore Cooper
  • We have religious and social opportunities--do we improve them?
  • Extract from : « Female Scripture Biographies, Vol. I » by Francis Augustus Cox
  • Let the lemon remain with the citrons, as it will improve their flavour.
  • Extract from : « Directions for Cookery, in its Various Branches » by Eliza Leslie
  • This is said greatly to improve their consistence and flavour.
  • Extract from : « Directions for Cookery, in its Various Branches » by Eliza Leslie
  • This will remove the acidity, and improve the bread in lightness.
  • Extract from : « Directions for Cookery, in its Various Branches » by Eliza Leslie
  • A very good thing, at least, for the country, to improve the breed of cattle.
  • Extract from : « Tales And Novels, Volume 9 (of 10) » by Maria Edgeworth

Synonyms for improve

Based on : Thesaurus.com - Gutenberg.org - Dictionary.com - Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019