Amplify: meaning, definitions and examples

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amplify

 

[ ˈæmplɪfaɪ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

sound

To make something louder or stronger, especially sound.

Synonyms

boost, increase, intensify.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
amplify

Used when talking about making sounds louder or increasing the intensity of something like feelings or signals.

  • He used a microphone to amplify his voice
  • The new strategy helped amplify their efforts in reaching more customers
increase

Used in general contexts where something becomes greater in size, number, or amount.

  • They need to increase the production rate to meet demand
  • There has been an increase in the number of tourists this year
intensify

Often involves making something stronger or more extreme, especially emotions, efforts, or actions.

  • The heat began to intensify as the day went on
  • The protestors decided to intensify their efforts to draw attention to their cause
boost

Common in contexts where increasing or improving performance, confidence, or energy levels is involved.

  • The new engine technology will boost the car's speed
  • Her words of encouragement really boosted my confidence

Examples of usage

  • The microphone amplified his voice so everyone could hear him.
  • The new software can amplify the bass in the music.
Context #2 | Verb

impact

To increase the effect or impact of something.

Synonyms

augment, enhance, strengthen.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
amplify

Often used in the context of sound or signals to make them louder or stronger. It can also be used more generally to mean increasing the magnitude or impact of something, often information.

  • The speaker was used to amplify the sound of the guitar.
  • He wrote several articles to amplify his views on the subject.
enhance

Used when you want to improve the quality, value, or attractiveness of something. Often implies adding finesse or making something better aesthetically.

  • The new software update will enhance the user experience.
  • She used spices to enhance the flavor of the dish.
strengthen

Used when talking about making something stronger or more resistant. Can refer to physical strength, as well as abstract concepts like relationships, arguments, or defenses.

  • He exercises every day to strengthen his muscles.
  • They implemented new policies to strengthen the security of the building.
augment

Typically used when something is being added to or made more significant. Often relates to adding value, enhancing quality, or increasing size.

  • They decided to augment their income by taking on extra work.
  • The company plans to augment its product line with new innovative designs.

Examples of usage

  • The successful marketing campaign amplified the company's sales.
  • Her supportive words amplified his confidence.
Context #3 | Verb

electronics

To increase the magnitude of an electrical signal.

Synonyms

boost.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
amplify

Typically used to describe an increase in volume, intensity, or effect, often related to sound, influence, or signal strength.

  • The speaker amplified the sound of the music
  • Her actions amplified the impact of the campaign
boost

Commonly used to refer to an increase or encouragement in strength, quantity, confidence, or morale. Often applied in marketing, confidence, energy, and economy settings.

  • The new advertisement helped boost sales
  • He gave her a boost of confidence before the interview

Examples of usage

  • The amplifier can amplify the weak signal from the antenna.

Translations

Translations of the word "amplify" in other languages:

🇵🇹 amplificar

🇮🇳 विस्तारित करना

🇩🇪 verstärken

🇮🇩 memperkuat

🇺🇦 посилювати

🇵🇱 wzmacniać

🇯🇵 増幅する

🇫🇷 amplifier

🇪🇸 amplificar

🇹🇷 güçlendirmek

🇰🇷 증폭하다

🇸🇦 يضخم

🇨🇿 zesílit

🇸🇰 zosilniť

🇨🇳 放大

🇸🇮 okrepiti

🇮🇸 styrkja

🇰🇿 күшейту

🇬🇪 გაძლიერება

🇦🇿 gücləndirmək

🇲🇽 amplificar

Etymology

The word 'amplify' originated from the Latin word 'amplificare', which means 'to enlarge' or 'to increase'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century with the same meaning of making something larger or stronger. Over time, 'amplify' evolved to also include the idea of increasing the impact or effect of something, not just its physical size. Today, 'amplify' is commonly used in various contexts, from sound technology to marketing strategies, to convey the idea of making something louder, stronger, or more impactful.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,421, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.