What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
improve
Example
I want to improve my English speaking skills. [improve: verb]
Example
The company is always looking for ways to improve their products. [improve: verb]
refine
Example
The chef refined the recipe to make it more flavorful. [refined: past tense]
Example
The scientist used a process to refine the crude oil into gasoline. [refine: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Improve is more common in everyday language and covers a broader range of contexts, while refine is less common and often used in technical or specialized fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between improve and refine?
Refine is more formal and technical than improve, and is often used in academic or professional settings. Improve is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
