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Evolve Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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evolve

[ɪˈvɒlv ]

Definitions

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

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Evolution is a key concept in biology that explains how all living things change over generations based on environmental pressures.
  • Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection is one of the most well-known explanations of how species evolve by adapting to survive in their environments.
  • Evolution is not just limited to biology; it can also describe changes in cultures, languages, and technologies over time.

Pop Culture

  • The idea of evolution has inspired countless films, books, and documentaries, highlighting the journey of life through changing forms.
  • Many video games incorporate evolutionary mechanics where characters or species can grow and change based on player choices.

Psychology

  • Cognitive evolution refers to how human thinking and behaviors have developed over millennia, affecting how we learn and interact today.
  • Some psychologists study how social behaviors and relationships evolve with technology and culture, showing how human interactions change.

Literature

  • Literary characters often evolve throughout stories, reflecting personal growth or change in beliefs, which makes them relatable and dynamic.
  • Famous novels like 'Pride and Prejudice' show how characters evolve through their experiences, impacting their decisions and relationships.

Origin of 'evolve'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'evolve' comes from the Latin 'evolvere,' which means 'to unroll or unfold,' like how a flower opens up.
  • It was first used in English in the 19th century to describe the gradual development of species.

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.