increase
n. C / Un. a rise in the amount, number, or level of something. You use it when something gets bigger or more frequent than it was before.
n. an instance of becoming greater in size, amount, or degree. Often followed by the preposition 'in' to specify the subject of growth.
There was a sudden increase in the price of bread.
The city has seen a steady increase in the number of people using bicycles to get to work.
Economists are monitoring the sharp increase in consumer spending, as it may signal a period of rapid inflation following the recent tax cuts.
When used with a specific subject, it typically takes the preposition 'in' (an increase in temperature).
an increase of the populationan increase in the populationUse 'in' to describe what is growing; use 'of' only when stating the specific amount of the change (an increase of 10%).