ENGLISH
REFERENCE

innovation

n. C / U
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən// UK //ˌɪnəvˈeɪʃən// in·no·va·tion General-service

n. a new idea, method, or invention that changes how things are done. It is often used to describe progress in technology or business.

n. the introduction of something new, such as an idea, method, or device. Often used to describe the practical application of creative concepts into a market or system.


SIMPLE

The company is famous for its technical innovation.

CONTEXTUAL

The new irrigation system was a major innovation that helped farmers save water during the dry season.

COMPLEX

While creativity involves the generation of novel ideas, true innovation requires the successful implementation of those ideas to solve existing problems or create value.

Synonyms
Origin

Borrowed from Middle French innovation, from Old French innovacion, from Late Latin innovatio, innovationem, from Latin innovo, innovatus. Morphologically innovate + -ion.

Usage

Uncountable when referring to the general process of change; countable when referring to a specific new invention or method.

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