Increase Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ“ˆ
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increase

[ษชnหˆkriหs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

finance

To become greater in size, amount, intensity, or degree. To make something greater in size, amount, intensity, or degree.

Synonyms

boost, enhance, expand, grow.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
increase

General term for making something larger in number, size, amount, etc.

  • The company plans to increase its workforce next year
  • Drinking water can help increase your energy levels
expand

Used when something physically or metaphorically becomes larger or more extensive, typically over a period of time.

  • The company plans to expand its operations to Europe
  • The balloon expanded as we blew air into it
grow

Refers to an increase in size or development, often used in the context of natural or organic growth.

  • Children grow quickly during their early years
  • The economy is expected to grow by 3% this year
boost

Used when there is a significant improvement or help in raising something, often related to motivation, energy, or performance. It has a positive connotation.

  • Eating more fruits can boost your immune system
  • The new marketing strategy helped boost sales
enhance

Used when you are making something better, more effective, or more attractive. It implies improvement in quality.

  • The software update will enhance the computer's performance
  • Adding spices can enhance the flavor of the dish

Examples of usage

  • The company aims to increase its market share by 20% this year.
  • She decided to increase the price of the product due to high demand.
Context #2 | Noun

mathematics

The amount by which something increases.

Synonyms

gain, growth, rise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
increase

Used when something becomes larger in amount, number, or degree over time.

  • The company has seen a significant increase in profits this year
  • There has been an increase in the number of tourists visiting the city
growth

Refers to the process of developing or improving, especially over a period of time, commonly used in economic, biological, or personal contexts.

  • The last decade has seen rapid economic growth in the region
  • The plant's growth was remarkably fast
rise

Indicates an upward movement or an increase in level or amount, often used in the context of prices, temperatures, or other measurable quantities.

  • There's been a rise in the price of gasoline recently
  • The sun rises in the east every morning
gain

Often used when acquiring or obtaining something beneficial or valuable, such as knowledge, weight, or an advantage.

  • She managed to gain a lot of useful skills during the internship
  • He gained five pounds over the holidays

Examples of usage

  • The increase in sales was significant compared to last year.
  • He calculated the percentage increase in the company's profits.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, increase is often seen in populations where organisms reproduce and grow, highlighting natural growth patterns.
  • In economics, the term is used to describe growth in various fields, such as income or production.
  • Physics often refers to increase in terms of energy; for example, when heat energy is added to a substance, its temperature increases.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'You have to spend money to make money' is often heard in business circles, emphasizing the need for investment to increase profits.
  • In fitness culture, lots of people track their progress, hoping to increase their strength, endurance, or overall health.
  • Increase has been a central theme in many motivational books and shows focusing on personal growth and self-improvement.

Psychology

  • Research indicates that acknowledging small increases or improvements can boost motivation and self-esteem in individuals.
  • Cognitive biases, such as the 'contrast effect', show how people perceive increases more positively when compared to a lower starting point.
  • Habits often increase gradually over time; psychologists suggest focusing on small increments for lasting change.

Literature

  • Classic literature often portrays characters who experience personal increase through lessons learned or challenges overcome.
  • In poetry, the theme of increase and growth is frequently explored, using nature as a metaphor for personal or societal evolution.
  • Many modern novels include story arcs where characters must overcome obstacles to increase their understanding of themselves or others.

Origin of 'increase'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'increase' comes from the Latin word 'increasere', which means to grow or enlarge.
  • It entered the English language in the 14th century, showing how long humans have been interested in growth.
  • The prefix 'in-' suggests 'into' and 'creasere' relates to 'to grow', highlighting growth in a positive direction.

The word 'increase' originated from the Latin word 'increasen', which means to augment or make greater. It has been used in the English language since the 14th century. The concept of increase is fundamental in various aspects of life, from economics and business to personal development and growth.


See also: crease, creased, creasing, decrease.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #259, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.