Word
threefold
Phoneticsthree·fold, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈθɹiˌfoʊɫd/
UK/θɹˈiːfəʊld/
Definition
adj. three times as much or as many as before. It can also describe something that has three different parts.
adj. comprising three parts or members; triple in amount or intensity. Often used to describe a significant increase in quantity or a multi-faceted situation.
Examples
“The company saw a threefold increase in profits this year.”
“The new policy aims for a threefold benefit: reducing costs, improving speed, and increasing safety.”
“Economists noted a threefold expansion in the manufacturing sector, attributing the surge to recent technological breakthroughs and favorable trade agreements.”
Examples
simple
“The company saw a threefold increase in profits this year.”
contextual
“The new policy aims for a threefold benefit: reducing costs, improving speed, and increasing safety.”
complex
“Economists noted a threefold expansion in the manufacturing sector, attributing the surge to recent technological breakthroughs and favorable trade agreements.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “threefold” in context.
Verb
01. report threefold
“Scientists report a threefold expansion of the protected habitat area.”
verb + adj
02. witness threefold
“The last decade has witnessed a threefold growth in digital subscriptions.”
verb + adj
Adjective
03. dramatic threefold
“A dramatic threefold rise in energy costs has impacted local businesses.”
adj + adj
04. significant threefold
“The company reported a significant threefold increase in annual profits.”
adj + adj
Noun
05. threefold expansion
“The project led to a threefold expansion of the existing rail network.”
adj + noun
06. threefold increase
“There has been a threefold increase in the number of applications this year.”
adj + noun
07. threefold purpose
“The new legislation serves a threefold purpose: safety, efficiency, and cost-cutting.”
adj + noun
08. threefold rise
“The city saw a threefold rise in bicycle usage during the summer months.”
adj + noun
09. achieve a threefold growth
“The startup aims to achieve a threefold growth in its user base by next year.”
10. represent a threefold increase
“These figures represent a threefold increase compared to the previous quarter.”
Usage
Typically used attributively before a noun; can also function as an adverb without changing form.
Real-World Examples
“The allure is threefold: They’re elegant, easy to wear, and relatively affordable.” “The aim is to increase solar manufacturing capabilities threefold by 2025, with further expansions planned by the end of the decade, enhancing energy security in the process.” “For SpaceX, the 8:29 p.m. liftoff of the Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station was a threefold success.” Etymology
From Old English þrīfeald, which became the Middle English threfold. It is a compound of three and -fold.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Synonyms
Related words
Idioms
Domain
- 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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englishreference.com/q/threefold