Bettered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bettered

[ˈbɛtərd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

improve

To make or become better; improve upon. To surpass in excellence. To amend or revise.

Synonyms

enhance, excel, improve, surpass.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bettered

Use in situations where something was made better than it was before; often used in comparisons.

  • She bettered her previous score in the exam.
  • The new model has bettered all expectations.
improve

General term for making something better than it was; can be used in a wide range of scenarios.

  • I want to improve my English skills.
  • The company is working to improve its customer service.
enhance

Appropriate when talking about increasing or improving the quality, value, or extent of something.

  • We need to enhance our public image.
  • The new software will enhance the performance of the computer.
excel

Used when someone performs extremely well in a particular activity or field.

  • He excels in mathematics.
  • She always tries to excel at everything she does.
surpass

Used to describe when someone or something goes beyond expectations or beats another in performance, often holding a competitive tone.

  • Her achievements far surpass those of her peers.
  • The team managed to surpass their previous records.

Examples of usage

  • She bettered her previous score in the exam.
  • He bettered himself by taking up new challenges at work.
Context #2 | Verb

defeat

To defeat or outdo in battle, contest, etc. To get the better of; overcome.

Synonyms

defeat, outdo, overcome, triumph over.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bettered

This term is often used to indicate that someone has improved something, such as performance, condition, or a record, usually when comparing it to a previous state.

  • She bettered her previous score in the marathon
defeat

Commonly used to describe winning against someone in a contest, competition, or battle. It often implies a complete victory.

  • The team managed to defeat their rivals in the finals
outdo

Used when someone surpasses or exceeds the performance of another, often in a friendly or competitive manner.

  • She always tries to outdo her colleagues by working late hours
overcome

Frequently used to express successfully dealing with or surpassing an obstacle, problem, or challenge. It carries a sense of persistence and effort.

  • He managed to overcome his fear of heights
triumph over

This phrase is generally used to highlight a significant and often hard-fought victory or success, typically after considerable struggle.

  • The underdog managed to triumph over the reigning champion

Examples of usage

  • The underdog bettered the reigning champion in a surprising victory.
  • She bettered her opponent with her strategic moves.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Research shows that striving to be 'bettered' boosts motivation and resilience in personal goals.
  • The concept of continuous improvement is linked to positive mental health, fostering a growth mindset.
  • Studies indicate that individuals who reflect regularly on their accomplishments feel more fulfilled and content.

Literature

  • In classic literature, characters often seek to better their circumstances, representing the pursuit of happiness.
  • Authors use the theme of improvement, or being 'bettered', to explore personal development through adversity.
  • Many stories highlight the transition from a flawed state to an improved one, illustrating themes of redemption.

Education

  • In educational settings, peer feedback helps students learn how their work can be bettered.
  • Learning models often emphasize iterative improvement, where students are encouraged to revise until their work is bettered.
  • The concept of lifelong learning focuses on the continual effort to better oneself through education.

Pop Culture

  • Songs and movies often revolve around the theme of bettering oneself, portraying characters who grow through experiences.
  • Reality TV shows frequently feature participants aiming to be bettered in their personal lives, from fitness to relationships.
  • Influencers frequently promote self-improvement as a key to happiness, reflecting societal values around betterment.

Origin of 'bettered'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'better' comes from the Old English 'betera', which originally meant 'more excellent'.
  • In Middle English, the term evolved to 'bettere', reflecting a comparative degree of improvement.
  • The suffix '-ed' indicates a completed action, turning the idea of improvement into a past reality.

The word 'bettered' originated from the Middle English word 'betere', which came from the Old English word 'betera'. It has been used in the English language for centuries to describe the act of improving or surpassing something. The concept of bettering oneself or a situation is a common theme in personal development and self-improvement.


See also: bet, better, betting, bettor, underbet.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,317, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.