refining
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
the industrial process of cleaning a raw material, such as oil or sugar, to make it ready for use.
the industrial process of removing impurities from a raw substance, such as petroleum, metal, or sugar, to produce a finished product.
Simple“The refining of crude oil into petrol takes place at large plants near the coast.”
In context“Environmental regulations have forced significant changes in the refining of precious metals to reduce toxic waste runoff.”
UsageOften used as an uncountable noun in industrial contexts.
Synonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
the act of making small changes to something to make it better or more exact.
the process of improving a theory, method, or skill by making fine adjustments or removing flaws.
Simple“After months of refining, the new software was finally ready for the public.”
In context“The constant refining of his technique allowed the pianist to perform the difficult concerto with effortless precision.”
UsageFrequently appears as a gerund acting as a noun.
Synonyms
“Oil production in the Gulf has recovered somewhat since the US went to war with Iran but diesel refining in the area has not, Dhar wrote.”
“Most of that is oil which will be shipped to Europe for refining before being sold on the open market.”