ENGLISH
REFERENCE

improving

v. · adj.
US //ˌɪmˈpɹuvɪŋ// UK //ɪmpɹˈuːvɪŋ// im·prov·ing
  1. 1 getting better (v.)
    A2 Elementary

    making something better or becoming better than it was before.

    the present participle of 'improve', used in continuous tenses to indicate ongoing progress or enhancement.

    Example

    The weather is improving, so we can go for a walk this afternoon.

    Example

    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.
  2. 2 the act of making better (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the process of making something better.

    the gerund form of 'improve', functioning as a noun to describe the action of enhancement.

    Example

    Improving your English takes a lot of practice and patience.

    Example

    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.
Show 1 more senseShow fewer
  1. 3 helpful for progress (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    something that helps you learn or makes you a better person.

    tending to improve someone or something, particularly in an educational or moral sense.

    Example

    She spent her weekends reading improving books about history and science.

    Example

    The Victorian era was marked by a proliferation of improving literature designed to instill moral discipline in the working classes.

    Teacher's tip

    This adjective use is somewhat dated and formal; in modern conversation, people usually say 'educational' or 'helpful'.
Word family

© 2026 English Reference