increase - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
increase Word Meanings
- to become larger or greater
- to raise a level or amount
- to make something more in quantity or intensity
increase Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
increase Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈkriːs/
US
/ɪnˈkriːs/
increase Word Etymology
in- = into + creaser = grow. Origin: Latin 'increscere' (to grow in or increase) → Old French 'encreistre' → English 'increase'. Memory image: Visualize a plant growing larger as it receives more sunlight and water, symbolizing growth and increase.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
I stand by the stove, turning up the heat with a slow, deliberate twist of the dial. The flame grows, and the pot's contents respond, bubbling a bit louder as I push the gas a notch higher. I feel the effort in my arm, a small adjust as I keep watching, deciding when to hold steady or ease back. What changes isn’t just the flame but how the meal presses on, how I push the boundary of its warmth until it’s larger in flavor and quantity.
Real Context
Increase is a versatile verb meaning to become larger or greater, to raise a level or amount, or to make something more in quantity or intensity. In everyday use you talk about increasing numbers, prices, temperatures, or efforts, often with phrases like increase by, increase in, or increase to to show how much or to what level. It sits among related verbs such as grow, rise, raise, boost, and expand, but is typically used for measurable changes rather than qualitative improvements. The word comes from Latin increscere (to grow in), through Old French encreistre, and into English as increase. Memory image: visualize a plant growing larger as it receives more sunlight and water.
Usage Reminders
- Use increase for measurable growth; pair with by, in, or to to show amount or level; distinguish it from grow or rise; remember its noun form increase (not increased as a verb); keep an eye on prepositions; practice finance and statistics contexts
Common Misconceptions
- confusing increase with grow or rise in all contexts
- thinking increase only applies to prices
- treating increase as a noun when a verb is needed
- using increase to mean 'make something more intense' without a measurable change
- confusing increase with inflate/boost in informal speech
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, increase often highlights quantitative growth and is frequently paired with by, in, or to to specify the amount or level. Learners sometimes overextend it to nonquantitative improvements or confuse it with grow or rise.
Learning Tips
- memorize collocations with increase (increase by, increase in, increase to)
- practice distinguishing increase from grow and rise
- learn when increase is used as a verb vs noun
- focus on measurable contexts like numbers, prices, temperatures
- note common prepositions after increase
- use real data or simulations to create sentences
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'increase' correctly?
A.She tried to decrease the amount of sugar in her diet.
B.He was very happy with the decrease in his salary.
C.The company decided to increase the prices significantly.
D.The cat made a huge jump over the wall.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'increase'?
A.Boost
B.Decline
C.Sad
D.Run
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'increase'?
A.Laugh
B.Decline
C.Bright
D.Sleep
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'increase'?
A.After the successful marketing campaign, the number of sales started to increase.
B.The population of the city was decreasing rapidly.
C.She felt really sad about the reduction in her savings.
D.He decided to take a nap to relax after a long day.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
🔥 Advanced
Algorithms, Claims and Vulnerable Users on Social Media
Technology & Social Media
Listen Now
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App