Revolutionize: meaning, definitions and examples

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revolutionize

 

[ ˌrɛvəˈluːʃənʌɪz ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

changing processes

To completely change a system, method, or way of doing something, often in a new and more effective way.

Synonyms

modernize, overhaul, reinvent, revamp, transform.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
revolutionize

Use this to describe a massive, fundamental change that alters the course of something in a significant way. It often implies innovation and a break from the past.

  • The smartphone has revolutionized the way we communicate.
  • Electric cars are set to revolutionize the automobile industry.
transform

Use this to illustrate a significant change in the form, appearance, or character of something. It can be used in both positive and neutral contexts.

  • The new CEO aims to transform the company into a market leader.
  • Exercise and a healthy diet can transform your life.
modernize

Use this to convey updating or upgrading something to make it more current and in line with modern standards.

  • The government has plans to modernize the public transportation system.
  • They decided to modernize the office with new computers and software.
revamp

This word is suitable for describing improvements or renovations, typically more cosmetic or surface-level than 'overhaul' suggests.

  • They are planning to revamp the website to make it more user-friendly.
  • The restaurant's menu has been revamped to include healthier options.
reinvent

Use this when talking about making significant changes to the identity, purpose, or form of something, often to adapt to new conditions or to improve.

  • After losing his job, he decided to reinvent himself as a freelance writer.
  • The brand has successfully reinvented itself to appeal to a younger audience.
overhaul

This word is appropriate when describing complete and thorough changes to improve functionality or efficiency. It suggests a detailed and significant effort.

  • The company plans to overhaul its entire customer service department.
  • The school's curriculum is getting an overhaul to better meet students' needs.

Examples of usage

  • Technology has revolutionized the way we communicate with each other.
  • The invention of the internet revolutionized the way we access information.
  • His innovative ideas have revolutionized the industry.
  • The company aims to revolutionize the transportation sector with its new product.
  • The new software has the potential to revolutionize the way businesses operate.

Translations

Translations of the word "revolutionize" in other languages:

🇵🇹 revolucionar

🇮🇳 क्रांतिकारी परिवर्तन करना

🇩🇪 revolutionieren

🇮🇩 merevolusi

🇺🇦 революціонізувати

🇵🇱 zrewolucjonizować

🇯🇵 革命を起こす

🇫🇷 révolutionner

🇪🇸 revolucionar

🇹🇷 devrim yapmak

🇰🇷 혁명을 일으키다

🇸🇦 إحداث ثورة

🇨🇿 revolucionizovat

🇸🇰 revolucionizovať

🇨🇳 革命

🇸🇮 revolucionirati

🇮🇸 byltingarkenna

🇰🇿 революция жасау

🇬🇪 რევოლუციის მოხდენა

🇦🇿 inqilab etmək

🇲🇽 revolucionar

Etymology

The word 'revolutionize' originated from the Latin word 'revolutio', which means 'a turnaround'. It first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century during a time of significant social and industrial change. The term gained popularity during periods of political upheaval and technological advancements, signifying a radical shift or transformation in various aspects of society. Today, 'revolutionize' continues to be used to describe profound changes that disrupt existing norms and introduce new innovations.

See also: revolutionarily, revolutionary, revolutionism, revolutionizing.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,518, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.