Word
evolve
US/iˈvɑɫv/
UK/ɪvˈɒlv/
Definitions
01to develop gradually
B2 · Upper Intermediate
v. to change or develop slowly over time into something better or more advanced.
v. to undergo a gradual process of change and development, typically from a simple to a more complex or effective state.
“The small family business evolved into a global company over thirty years.”
“The software has evolved from a simple text editor into a comprehensive suite of creative tools used by professionals worldwide.”
Usage
Often used with the preposition 'from' or 'into'.
Antonyms
02biological evolution
B2 · Upper Intermediate Science Academic
v. when a type of plant or animal changes over many generations to fit its environment.
v. to undergo genetic change over successive generations through natural selection or other evolutionary mechanisms.
“Scientists believe that birds evolved from small feathered dinosaurs.”
“Certain species of desert plants have evolved thick, waxy skins to prevent water loss in extreme heat.”
Usage
Can be used transitively (to evolve a trait) or intransitively (the species evolved).
03to release gas
C2 · Proficiency Science Technical
v. to give off a gas or heat during a chemical reaction.
v. to emit or give off a gaseous substance as a byproduct of a chemical process.
“The mixture began to evolve bubbles of carbon dioxide as it heated up.”
“The reaction was monitored closely to measure the rate at which the compound evolved hydrogen gas under high pressure.”
Usage
Usually transitive, taking the gas as a direct object.
Antonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “evolve” in context.
Verb
01. evolve and adapt
“Species must evolve and adapt to their changing environment to avoid extinction.”
verb + and + verb
02. evolve from a simple idea
“The award-winning novel evolved from a simple idea the author had while traveling.”
verb + prep + adj + noun
03. evolve into a professional
“With enough practice and dedication, she evolved into a professional musician.”
verb + prep + noun
Adverb
04. constantly evolve
“In the tech industry, software must constantly evolve to meet new security challenges.”
adv + verb
05. evolve rapidly
“Language evolves rapidly in the digital age as new slang terms emerge every day.”
verb + adv
06. gradually evolve
“The small family business gradually evolved into a global corporation over several decades.”
adv + verb
Real-World Examples
“Both types of objects have long been sought because they can provide important clues about how stars form and evolve.” “Around 580 million years ago, some animals had started to evolve simple organs.” “Their analysis suggests these birds did not evolve at a steady pace.” “Over time, American colonists’ attitudes toward the Hessians began to evolve.” Etymology
Borrowed from Latin ēvolvō (“unroll, unfold”), from ē- (“out of”) (short form of ex) + volvō (“roll”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
Domains
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper IntermediateOxford
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/evolve