augment - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
augment Word Meanings
- to make something greater or larger
- to add to something
- to increase in size, value, or degree
augment Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
augment Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɔːɡˈmɛnt/
US
/ɔɡˈmɛnt/
augment Word Etymology
augment = aug- (increase) + -ment (result of) → Latin 'augere' meaning 'to increase' → Middle English 'augmenten' → 'augment'; Imagine a plant growing taller and stronger as it receives more sunlight, representing growth.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Augment is a formal verb meaning to make something greater by adding to it. It is often used in technical, academic, or strategic contexts where a deliberate enhancement is planned. You can augment a dataset with new samples, augment your savings with a side job, or augment the impact of a campaign by funding additional resources. Note that augment implies purposeful improvement rather than a random increase. In everyday English you may use increase or raise, but augment emphasizes a structured, purposeful benefit and is commonly paired with words like capacity, performance, or resources.
Usage Reminders
- Think of augmentation as addition aimed at improvement.
- Pair augment with resources, capacity, or performance for clarity.
- Prefer 'augment' in formal or technical writing, not casual speech.
- Remember the noun form is 'augmentation'.
- Practice with datasets, skills, or processes to solidify usage.
Common Misconceptions
- Think augment is just a synonym for increase; it often implies a purposeful, additive change.
- Treat augment as casual slang; in many contexts it is formal or technical.
- Confuse augment with the noun augmentation instead of the verb augment.
- Assume you can augment anything; it often collocates with resources, capacity, or performance.
- Pronunciation: it is not pronounced like 'August'—stress is on the second syllable: aw-GMENT.
Thinking Differences
In English, augment carries a formal, technical nuance: you add something new to improve the whole. Learners often mistake it for simply 'increase' or 'add', but augment implies planning, purpose, and sometimes external resources (e. g., augment capacity, augment dataset).
Learning Tips
- Augment is formal; practice with datasets, skills, and processes.
- Pair augment with resources, capacity, or performance for clarity.
- Avoid using augment in casual speech; use increase instead.
- Know the noun form: augmentation.
- Read technical articles to see natural collocations.
- Pronounce with stress on the second syllable: aw-GMENT.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'augment'?
A.Decrease
B.Sleep
C.Fly
D.Strengthen
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'augment' used correctly?
A.He wanted to run faster to augment his shoes.
B.The cat decided to bark to augment its sound.
C.She decided to reduce her income to augment her savings.
D.The teacher wanted to speak louder to augment the silence.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'augment'?
A.Decrease
B.Amplify
C.Hide
D.Hinder
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'augment'?
A.Boost
B.Expand
C.Lessen
D.Increase
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would someone 'augment' something?
A.Cooking by adding more salt to the dish
B.Sleeping to wake up early
C.School by skipping classes
D.Driving slowly on the highway
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