verb

enhance

/ɪnˈhæns/ · say it: en·HANS

to improve the quality or value of

In Sophisticated Everyday

In more detail

1. (verb) to make something better or more impressive

2. (verb) to make something stronger or more noticeable

Examples

1. The new lighting enhanced the beauty of the room.
2. This software enhancement improves the computer's performance.

How to use enhance

Enhance is a versatile verb used in both professional and everyday contexts to indicate making something better or more prominent. It carries a sense of adding value or intensity rather than just making minor improvements, distinguishing it from simpler verbs like 'improve'. The word is common in marketing, technology, and academic writing.

Common phrases

enhance performance
enhance image
enhance quality
enhance appeal
enhance features
enhance understanding

Synonyms

improve · strengthen · amplify · augment · boost

Opposites

diminish · weaken · reduce

Word family

enhancement (noun) · enhancer (noun) · enhanced (adjective)

A common mistake

Learners often overuse 'enhance' in casual speech where simpler verbs like 'improve' or 'make better' would be more natural and less formal.

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