Word
improving
Phoneticsim·prov·ing, stress on the second syllable
US/ˌɪmˈpɹuvɪŋ/
UK/ɪmpɹˈuːvɪŋ/
Definitions
01getting better
A2 · Elementary
v. making something better or becoming better than it was before.
v. the present participle of 'improve', used in continuous tenses to indicate ongoing progress or enhancement.
“The weather is improving, so we can go for a walk this afternoon.”
“The patient's condition is steadily improving, though the medical team remains cautious about the long-term prognosis.”
Usage
Often used in the present continuous to describe a current trend.
02the act of making better
B1 · Intermediate
v. the process of making something better.
v. the gerund form of 'improve', functioning as a noun to describe the action of enhancement.
“Improving your English takes a lot of practice and patience.”
“Improving the infrastructure of the rural districts became the primary focus of the new regional development plan.”
Usage
Functions as a noun; often the subject of a sentence.
Synonyms
03helpful for progress
C1 · Advanced Formal
adj. something that helps you learn or makes you a better person.
adj. tending to improve someone or something, particularly in an educational or moral sense.
“She spent her weekends reading improving books about history and science.”
“The Victorian era was marked by a proliferation of improving literature designed to instill moral discipline in the working classes.”
Teaching tip
This adjective use is somewhat dated and formal; in modern conversation, people usually say 'educational' or 'helpful'.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “improving” in context.
- 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.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL 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: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- A2 · Elementary
- Updated
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