English Reference
noun

revision

n.
US /ɹiˈvɪʒən/ UK /ɹɪvˈɪʒən/ re·vi·sion UK spelling revision's, revision's

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    the act of changing something to improve it or make it more accurate.

    the process of amending, correcting, or improving a document, policy, or idea.

    Simple

    The teacher asked for a revision of the essay to fix the grammar mistakes.

    In context

    The legal team suggested a thorough revision of the contract terms to ensure all parties were protected under the new regulations.

    Usage

    Often used with the preposition 'of'.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    a new or updated version of something, like a book or a plan.

    a specific version of a text or object that has been modified from the original.

    Simple

    The latest revision of the software fixed the bugs from last month.

    In context

    The third revision of the textbook includes two additional chapters on digital marketing strategies.

    Usage

    Countable in this sense.

  3. 03 B1 Intermediate British English

    the work you do to prepare for an exam by looking at your notes again.

    the process of reviewing previously learned material in preparation for an examination.

    Simple

    I have a lot of revision to do before my maths exam on Tuesday.

    In context

    Students are encouraged to begin their revision several weeks before the final assessments to avoid last-minute cramming.

    Usage

    Usually uncountable when referring to the general activity of studying.

    Teacher's tip

    This is the most common sense in the UK and Australia; American students almost exclusively use 'review' for this activity.

    Pitfall
    I need to do some reviews for my history test. I need to do some revision for my history test.

    In British English, 'revision' is the standard term for studying old material before a test; 'review' is more common in American English.

Usage require revision

Instead of relying mainly on AI-detection software, instructors can also ask students to document revisions, defend their choices and reflect on where AI did and did not improve their work.

Phys.org· 19 Aug 2026

In 1976, new rule revisions made it possible for “social orphans,” meaning children of single or divorced parents, to be admitted.

The Conversation· 16 Jul 2026

Etymology 1

Borrowed from French révision, from Latin revīsiō.

Etymology 2

From re- + vision.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin revīsiō
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated