6 synonyms and better words for “increase,” each with its precise meaning and an example so you pick the one that actually fits, not just the nearest match.
To make something larger, stronger, or more intense in effect or scope.
“The new marketing campaign amplified their reach across three continents overnight.”
Best for: Works well in tech, media, and business writing when you want something with energy.
To rise or cause something to rise rapidly, often with a sense of urgency or momentum.
“Tensions escalated as the bidding war pushed the price far beyond expectations.”
Best for: Strong in journalistic or dramatic contexts; implies speed and consequence.
To make something greater by adding to it, enhancing its existing quality or quantity.
“She augmented her income by licensing her photography to editorial outlets worldwide.”
Best for: Favored in academic, technical, and formal professional writing.
To grow or develop rapidly and flourishingly, like a plant putting out new shoots.
“The startup's user base burgeoned from ten thousand to a million within a single quarter.”
Best for: Literary and vivid; excellent for describing organic or natural-feeling growth.
To accumulate or increase gradually over time, especially as a natural byproduct of a process.
“Compound interest accrued silently, doubling his investment long before he noticed.”
Best for: Precise and restrained; ideal for financial, legal, or quietly formal writing.
To grow progressively larger, stronger, or more intense, drawn from the image of a growing moon.
“His ambition waxed with every obstacle overcome, until nothing seemed beyond his reach.”
Best for: Archaic and poetic; use when you want a rare, literary texture with classical resonance.
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