Evolve: meaning, definitions and examples

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evolve

 

[ ɪˈvɒlv ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

biology

Develop gradually, especially from a simple to a more complex form.

Synonyms

advance, develop, grow, progress.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
evolve

Used to describe a gradual change or transformation over a long period, often in a biological or systematic context.

  • Species tend to evolve to adapt to their environments.
  • His thinking about ethics has evolved over the years.
develop

Used to describe growth or progression in a variety of contexts such as skills, software, relationships, or projects.

  • They developed a new marketing strategy.
  • The child is developing critical thinking skills.
progress

Often used to describe forward or onward movement towards a goal or an improvement over time, can imply a positive change.

  • The team is making good progress on the project.
  • Society has made significant progress in terms of equality.
advance

Used to indicate forward movement or improvement, often in technology, knowledge, or position.

  • The medical field continues to advance with new treatments.
  • She advanced quickly in her career.
grow

Used to describe an increase in size, number, or importance, often in a more physical or organic context.

  • Plants need sunlight and water to grow.
  • The company's revenue continues to grow each year.

Examples of usage

  • Over time, organisms evolve to adapt to their environment.
  • The theory of evolution explains how species evolve over generations.
  • Technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace.
Context #2 | Verb

general

Undergo gradual change.

Synonyms

change, develop, shift, transform.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
evolve

Use 'evolve' when discussing gradual or long-term changes, often in natural, biological, or abstract processes.

  • Over millions of years, species evolve to adapt to their environments.
  • Our company policy has evolved to better match modern values.
change

Use 'change' for general alterations or replacements of one thing with another, often in everyday situations.

  • I need to change my clothes before the party.
  • The weather can change quickly in this region.
transform

Use 'transform' for significant and often positive changes that completely alter the nature or appearance of something.

  • The new management plans to transform the company.
  • Exercise can transform your body and mindset.
shift

Use 'shift' when describing a slight or partial change in position, direction, or focus, often used in abstract or strategic contexts.

  • The company decided to shift its strategy towards digital marketing.
  • Her opinion on the matter started to shift.
develop

Use 'develop' when referring to the process of growth or improvement over time, typically for more complex or planned progress.

  • She wants to develop her skills in photography.
  • The town has developed significantly over the past decade.

Examples of usage

  • Her ideas on politics have evolved over the years.
  • The company has evolved into a global corporation.
  • Society's attitude towards technology has evolved.

Translations

Translations of the word "evolve" in other languages:

🇵🇹 evoluir

🇮🇳 विकसित होना

🇩🇪 entwickeln

🇮🇩 berkembang

🇺🇦 еволюціонувати

🇵🇱 ewoluować

🇯🇵 進化する (shinka suru)

🇫🇷 évoluer

🇪🇸 evolucionar

🇹🇷 evrim geçirmek

🇰🇷 진화하다 (jinhwahada)

🇸🇦 يتطور (yattatawwar)

🇨🇿 vyvíjet se

🇸🇰 vyvíjať sa

🇨🇳 进化 (jìnhuà)

🇸🇮 evoluirati

🇮🇸 þróast

🇰🇿 эволюциялану

🇬🇪 განვითარება (ganvitareba)

🇦🇿 inkişaf etmək

🇲🇽 evolucionar

Etymology

The word 'evolve' originates from the Latin word 'evolvere', meaning 'to unroll'. It entered the English language in the mid-17th century with the biological sense of 'develop from pre-existing forms'. The concept of evolution has been a central theme in biology since Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection in the 19th century.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,097 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.