English Reference
noun · verb · adjective

reform

n. · v. · adj.
US /ɹəˈfɔɹm/ re·form UK spelling reforms

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a change made to a system, law, or organization to make it better or fairer.

    n.the improvement or amendment of what is wrong, corrupt, or unsatisfactory in a system or law.

    Simple

    The government is planning a major reform of the healthcare system next year.

    In context

    Economic reform remains a priority for the administration as they attempt to address the widening gap between urban and rural incomes.

    Usage

    Often used with 'of' to indicate the system being changed.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to make changes to a system or law so that it works better.

    v.to improve a system, law, or institution by making changes to its structure or practice.

    Simple

    They want to reform the tax laws to help small businesses grow.

    In context

    The new director was hired specifically to reform the department's outdated procurement processes and reduce waste.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal

    v.to stop behaving badly and start living a better life.

    v.to abandon evil or immoral ways and adopt a better way of life; can be used transitively or intransitively.

    Simple

    After spending time in prison, he promised to reform and help his community.

    In context

    The program aims to reform young offenders by providing them with vocational training and psychological support.

    mend one's waysrehabilitate
  4. 04 C1 Advanced Technical Religion

    adj.relating to a branch of Judaism that adapts traditional laws to modern life.

    adj.relating to Reform Judaism, a major Jewish denomination that emphasizes the evolving nature of the religion.

    Simple

    They attend a Reform synagogue that holds services in both Hebrew and English.

    In context

    Reform theology typically views the Torah as a living document that must be interpreted in the context of contemporary social values.

Usage reforms to social

Local and state authorities must work to improve conditions, ensure access to effective remedies and reform or eliminate the 24-hour workday system in line with international human rights standards, the experts said.

UN News· 13 Aug 2026

Labour's employment reforms are set to cut the number of hours staff can work before they must be offered guaranteed time.

BBC News· 13 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Common
Updated