install
gb/ɪnstˈɔl/ us/ɪnstˈɔl/
A2
English
~ 2100
Senses
0 senses
Verb
A2
action
1
Put equipment or software in place
To put equipment or a program in place so it can be used.
Usage pattern:
to install [something] on [something]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'install' with 'download'. Download means to copy data from the internet to your device, while install means to set it up so it works.
Synonyms
set up (More informal; often used for both physical and digital items.)
|
configure (More technical; focuses on adjusting settings after installation.)
Antonyms
uninstall (Specifically means to remove software or an application from a device.)
|
remove (General term for taking something away; not limited to software.)
Collocations
install software
|install updates
|install a program
|install an app
|install the system
Themes
technology
|daily life
|work
|daily_life
Examples
- I need to install the new printer before we can start using it.
- The technician will install the air conditioner tomorrow.
- Make sure you install the latest security updates on your computer.
- He installed a new app to track his workouts.
- They installed solar panels on the roof last week.
Learner examples
- I will install the game on my phone.
- Please install the lamp in the living room.
- We will install the program today.
- She will install the app on her tablet.
Verb
formal
B2
action
2
Put someone into an official role
To officially give someone an important job or position.
Usage pattern:
to install [someone] as [position]
Common mistake:
Learners may confuse 'install' here with 'hire', but 'install' often implies formality and ceremony, especially for high positions.
Synonyms
appoint (Emphasizes the act of choosing someone for a role; less ceremonial.)
|
inaugurate (Specifically refers to a formal ceremony when someone starts a high office.)
Antonyms
remove (To take someone out of a position.)
|
dismiss (To officially end someone's job or role.)
Collocations
install a leader
|install as president
|install a manager
Themes
politics
|business
|law
Examples
- The board installed her as the new CEO.
- He was installed as bishop in a grand ceremony.
- They installed a new manager to improve operations.
- The king installed his son as heir.
Learner examples
- They installed her as president.
- The company installed a new boss.
- He was installed as team leader.
- The school installed a new principal.
Grammar
Dictionary form
install
IPA
GB/ɪnstˈɔl/
US/ɪnstˈɔl/
Syllables & stress
in - stall (2 syllables)
Stress on 2nd syllable (stall)
Word forms
Verb
- Base: install
- 3rd Person Singular: installs, instals
- Present Participle: installing
- Past: installed
- Past Participle: installed
Word family
Forms
installs
verb
instals
verb
installing
verb
installed
verb
Core family
installation
noun B1
installer
noun
Related words
reinstall
verb
installable
adjective
Negative and opposite forms
uninstall
verb
Advanced or less common
preinstall
verb
reinstallation
noun
Expressions
install an app
1/ɪnstˈɔl ən ˈæp/
fixed phrase
Put an app onto a device
To put an application onto your phone, tablet, or computer so you can use it.
Examples
- You need to install an app to edit these photos.
- I installed an app to help me learn Spanish.
install updates
1/ɪnstˈɔl ʌpdˈeɪts/
fixed phrase
Add new improvements to software
To put new changes or fixes into a program so it works better or is safer.
Examples
- Remember to install updates regularly to keep your system secure.
- I installed updates last night and my phone runs faster now.