refine Definition
- 1to make something pure or improve it by removing unwanted substances
- 2to improve an idea, method, system, etc. by making small changes
Using refine: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "refine" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The oil is refined to remove impurities.
Example
She refined her recipe over time to make it more delicious.
Example
The company is constantly refining its marketing strategy.
refine Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using refine
Example
He may seem unimpressive now, but he's a diamond in the rough who just needs some refining.
to solve problems or difficulties through careful planning and attention to detail
Example
We need to refine our plan and iron out the kinks before we can move forward.
Example
Let me put a fine point on what I'm trying to say: we need to refine our approach if we want to succeed.
Phrases with refine
Example
Her refined taste in art made her a respected critic.
refine one's skills
to improve one's abilities through practice and training
Example
He spent years refining his skills as a musician.
refine one's manners
to improve one's behavior and etiquette
Example
She attended a finishing school to refine her manners and social skills.
Origins of refine
from Old French 'refiner', from Latin 'refinare', from 're-' (expressing intensive force) + 'finis' (end, limit)
Summary: refine in Brief
To 'refine' [rɪˈfaɪn] means to purify or improve something by removing unwanted substances, or to improve an idea, method, system, etc. by making small changes. Examples include refining oil, refining a recipe, and refining a marketing strategy. Phrases like 'refined taste' and 'refine one's skills' denote highly developed abilities, while idioms like 'diamond in the rough' and 'put a fine point on something' suggest potential for improvement and precision.
