DICT.TW Dictionary Taiwan
Im·prove, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Improved p. pr. & vb. n. Improving.]
1. To make better; to increase the value or good qualities of; to ameliorate by care or cultivation; as, to improve land.
I love not to improve the honor of the living by impairing that of the dead. --Denham.
2. To use or employ to good purpose; to make productive; to turn to profitable account; to utilize; as, to improve one's time; to improve his means.
We shall especially honor God by improving diligently the talents which God hath committed to us. --Barrow.
A hint that I do not remember to have seen opened and improved. --Addison.
The court seldom fails to improve the opportunity. --Blackstone.
How doth the little busy bee
Improve each shining hour. --I. Watts.
Those moments were diligently improved. --Gibbon.
True policy, as well as good faith, in my opinion, binds us to improve the occasion. --Washington.
3. To advance or increase by use; to augment or add to; -- said with reference to what is bad. [R.]
We all have, I fear, . . . not a little improved the wretched inheritance of our ancestors. --Bp. Porteus.
Syn: -- To better; meliorate; ameliorate; advance; heighten; mend; correct; rectify; amend; reform.
improved
adj 1: made more desirable or valuable or profitable; especially
made ready for use or marketing; "new houses are
springing up on an improved tract of land near the
river"; "an improved breed" [ant: unimproved]
2: become or made better in quality; "was proud of his improved
grades"; "an improved viewfinder"
3: (of land) made ready for development or agriculture by
clearing of trees and brush; "improved farmlands"