improvement
n.-
1 the act of making better (n.) B1 Intermediatethe process of making something better than it was before.
the act or process of enhancing the quality, value, or condition of something.
ExampleThe coach noticed a big improvement in the team's passing during the second half.
ExampleContinuous improvement in manufacturing processes is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the global market.
UsageOften used with the preposition 'in' to specify the area of change.
PitfallThere is an improvement of my English.There is an improvement in my English.Use the preposition 'in' when describing the area or skill that has become better.
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2 a better state or result (n.) B1 Intermediatea change that makes something better, or a version that is better than the old one.
the state of being improved or a specific instance of such a change.
ExampleThe new software is a huge improvement over the old version.
ExampleThe latest quarterly figures represent a significant improvement on the previous year's performance, exceeding most analysts' expectations.
UsageCan be used as a countable noun when referring to a specific change.
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3 physical additions (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatea physical change made to a place, like a building or a garden, to make it more valuable.
valuable additions or modifications made to a property, machine, or piece of land.
ExampleThey spent the summer making home improvements, like painting the walls and fixing the roof.
ExampleThe tenant is entitled to compensation for any permanent improvements made to the premises with the landlord's prior written consent.
UsageCommonly used in the plural when referring to property or real estate.
Teacher's tipIn a legal or real estate context, this specifically refers to permanent fixtures like fences or new rooms.
From Anglo-Norman emprouwement. By surface analysis, improve + -ment.