What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ameliorate
Example
The new policy is expected to ameliorate the working conditions for employees. [ameliorate: verb]
Example
The medication helped ameliorate the symptoms of the disease. [ameliorate: verb]
improve
Example
She worked hard to improve her grades in school. [improve: verb]
Example
The company implemented new strategies to improve their sales performance. [improve: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Improve is more commonly used than ameliorate in everyday language. Improve is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts and situations, while ameliorate is less common and typically used in more formal or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ameliorate and improve?
Ameliorate is generally considered more formal than improve. It is often used in academic or professional writing, while improve can be used in both formal and informal contexts.