enhance
gb/ɪnhˈæns/ us/ɪnhˈæns/
B2
English
~ 2700
Senses
0 senses
Verb
B2
action
1
Improve or increase quality/value
To make something better or more valuable.
Usage pattern:
to enhance [something]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'enhance' with 'increase'. 'Enhance' focuses on improving quality or effectiveness, not just making something bigger in amount.
Synonyms
improve (More general; does not always imply adding extra features or value.)
|
boost (Informal; often used for a quick or noticeable improvement.)
Antonyms
diminish (Means to make something smaller, weaker, or less valuable.)
|
degrade (Implies lowering quality or value, often through damage.)
Collocations
enhance performance
|enhance quality
|enhance experience
|enhance reputation
|enhance skills
Themes
business
|technology
|daily life
|core_vocabulary
|work
Examples
- The new software update will enhance your phone's battery life.
- Adding spices can enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Training programs are designed to enhance employees' skills.
- Good lighting can greatly enhance the appearance of a room.
- The investment will enhance the company's market position.
Learner examples
- The teacher used pictures to enhance the lesson.
- Salt can enhance the taste of food.
- He took a class to enhance his English skills.
- A new coat of paint will enhance the house.
- The upgrade will enhance the car's performance.
Grammar
Dictionary form
enhance
IPA
GB/ɪnhˈæns/
US/ɪnhˈæns/
Syllables & stress
en - hance (2 syllables)
Stress on 2nd syllable (hance)
Word forms
Verb
- Base: enhance
- 3rd Person Singular: enhances
- Present Participle: enhancing
- Past: enhanced
Word family
Forms
enhances
verb
enhancing
verb
enhanced
verb
Core family
enhancement
noun B2
Related words
enhancer
noun
Expressions
enhance performance
1/ɪnhˈæns pɚfˈɔɹməns/
fixed phrase
Improve how well something works
To make a person, machine, or system work better.
Examples
- The new training program is designed to enhance performance in the workplace.
- These vitamins may enhance performance in athletes.
enhance reputation
1/ɪnhˈæns ɹˌɛpjətˈeɪʃən/
fixed phrase
Improve public image or status
To make people think more positively about someone or something.
Examples
- Winning the award will enhance the company's reputation.
- Charity work can greatly enhance a person's reputation.
enhance the experience
1/ɪnhˈæns ðə ɪkspˈɪɹiəns/
fixed phrase
Make an experience better
To make an activity or event more enjoyable or satisfying.
Examples
- The guide's stories really enhanced the experience of the tour.
- Music can enhance the experience of dining in a restaurant.