augment

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb augment contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of augment are enlarge, increase, and multiply. While all these words mean "to make or become greater," augment implies addition to what is already well grown or well developed.

the inheritance augmented his fortune

When is it sensible to use enlarge instead of augment?

The words enlarge and augment can be used in similar contexts, but enlarge implies expansion or extension that makes greater in size or capacity.

enlarged the kitchen

When might increase be a better fit than augment?

In some situations, the words increase and augment are roughly equivalent. However, increase used intransitively implies progressive growth in size, amount, or intensity; used transitively it may imply simple not necessarily progressive addition.

his waistline increased with age
increased her landholdings

Where would multiply be a reasonable alternative to augment?

While in some cases nearly identical to augment, multiply implies increase in number by natural generation or by indefinite repetition of a process.

with each attempt the problems multiplied

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of augment Mediate and foster interactions between humans and society, fostering relationships that prioritize empathy, collaboration, and inclusivity, augmenting not diminishing human agency, autonomy, and social dependence? Hamilton Mann, Forbes, 20 Jan. 2025 The executive, in contrast, is tempted to war to augment power. Bruce Fein, Baltimore Sun, 16 Jan. 2025 Lions also expect to have RB David Montgomery back from his knee injury to augment dynamic Jahmyr Gibbs. Greg Cote, Miami Herald, 16 Jan. 2025 Elon Musk has long sought to augment his Silicon Valley celebrity with gamer cred, professing both skill and passion for a medium favored by tech geeks. Miles Klee, Rolling Stone, 13 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for augment 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for augment
Verb
  • Another 2021 study found that sleep deprivation increased levels of cortisol during interpersonal conflict.
    Daisy Jones, Vogue, 26 Jan. 2025
  • Since the attack, Weisz-Gut has felt forced to take account of the specter of increasing prejudice in Europe on a personal level.
    Allison Gordon, CNN, 26 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • During the month of January, sky gazers will be able to see four planets in one view — and come February, the parade will only expand.
    Caitlin O'Kane, CBS News, 27 Jan. 2025
  • The new store will also greatly expand the selection of artist and band merchandise and audio equipment like turntables and speakers, as well as new and used vinyl and CDs.
    Jem Aswad, Variety, 27 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • Nevitt said that the invocation of the Defense Production Act, which can be used to accelerate manufacturing, is also possible.
    Rachel Frazin, The Hill, 21 Jan. 2025
  • This shift not only optimizes workforce resources but also accelerates procurement timelines, driving greater operational efficiency.
    Komal Goyal, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • In this corner of the world, traditional attires are inherently bright, but the filmmakers boost their impact by conceiving the images to look unassumingly radiant in the way hues mingle in the frame.
    Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 25 Jan. 2025
  • Do turmeric supplements really treat pain, boost mood, and improve allergies?
    Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 25 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • More online social features built into the game or system would greatly enhance the experience.
    Jordan Minor, PCMAG, 18 Jan. 2025
  • But one rationale for these scrambles is to enhance pedestrian safety by completely separating vehicles from pedestrians.
    Kwame Anthony Appiah, New York Times, 18 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near augment

Cite this Entry

“Augment.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/augment. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on augment

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