Word
modernize
Phoneticsmod·ern·ize, stress on the first syllable
/ˈmɑdɝˌnaɪz/
UK spelling · modernise
Definition
v. to update something so that it uses the latest ideas, technology, or styles. You do this to make an old system or building work better for people today.
v. to adapt something to modern needs, tastes, or methods by incorporating current technology and contemporary standards. Often implies an improvement in efficiency or relevance.
Examples
“The company needs to modernize its computer systems.”
“The city council plans to modernize the public library by adding high-speed internet and digital archives.”
“Economists argue that the government must modernize the aging infrastructure to remain competitive in the global market and attract foreign investment.”
Examples
simple
“The company needs to modernize its computer systems.”
contextual
“The city council plans to modernize the public library by adding high-speed internet and digital archives.”
complex
“Economists argue that the government must modernize the aging infrastructure to remain competitive in the global market and attract foreign investment.”
Usage
The verb is transitive and takes a direct object.
Real-World Examples
“Washington currently operates its Pituffik Space Base in Greenland's north-west, and the new deal allows the US to "modernise and expand its activities" there.” “With actual samurai sidelined as Japan modernized in the nineteenth century, Italians were able to cherry-pick the aspects of the samurai’s image that they found most relevant.” Etymology
From modern + -ize or French moderniser.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
- 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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/modernize