Refinement: meaning, definitions and examples

When trying to improve or make something more elegant or polished. Often used in the context of arts, manners, processes, or sophistication.

• The chef's refinement of the recipe took it to a whole new level.
• Her refinement in manners impressed everyone at the dinner party.

Used when removing impurities or contaminants from a substance. Often found in contexts related to water, air, or spiritual practices.

• The water purification system ensured that all contaminants were removed.
• The ritual was a form of spiritual purification.

Used when explaining something that might be confusing or unclear, to make it easy to understand. Commonly utilized in communication and instructional settings.

• Could you provide a clarification on this point?
• The teacher's clarification helped the students understand the complex concept.

Refers to the process of purifying a liquid by heating and cooling, often used in chemistry. It can also be used metaphorically to mean extracting the most important aspects of something.

• The scientist performed a distillation to purify the chemical compound.
• His speech was a distillation of the main ideas from the conference.

This word is often used when talking about the process of making something better and more polished, especially in art, manners, or technology. It can also refer to subtle or sophisticated qualities.

• The new smartphone shows great refinement in its design.
• Her manners exhibited a level of refinement uncommon in such a setting.

This word is used in general contexts when something becomes better than it was before. It can refer to personal growth, project enhancements, or any kind of development.

• There has been a noticeable improvement in her work performance.
• The new software update included some crucial improvements.

This word is used to describe a quality of being graceful, stylish, and sophisticated. It is commonly used in context with fashion, design, and behavior.

• Her dress was the epitome of elegance.
• The solution to the problem was noted for its elegance and simplicity.

This word typically refers to the process of developing a skill, improving knowledge, or nurturing growth in culture or agriculture. It implies a careful and methodical approach.

• He devoted his time to the cultivation of his musical talents.
• The cultivation of rice is essential for the local economy.