increase (A2)

verb, noun

Pronunciation: /ɪnˈkriːs/

Definition

To become or make something greater in size, amount, or degree.

Examples

• The population of the city has increased by 10% in the last decade.

• We need to increase our efforts to meet the deadline.

• The government plans to increase taxes next year.

How to Use increase

increase by (prepositional phrase)

To become greater in amount or size by a specific number or percentage. — "The price of gas increased by 10 cents per gallon."

increase to (prepositional phrase)

To reach a greater amount or size, ending at a specific level. — "The number of visitors increased to over one million last year."

increase in (prepositional phrase)

To become greater in amount or size within a particular area or category. — "There has been an increase in crime in the city center."

Synonyms of increase

Words with a similar meaning to increase:

• grow
• raise
• boost
• escalate

Antonyms of increase

Words with the opposite meaning to increase:

• decrease
• reduce

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