increase

Definition of increasenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb increase contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of increase are augment, enlarge, and multiply. While all these words mean "to make or become greater," 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

When would augment be a good substitute for increase?

The words augment and increase are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, augment implies addition to what is already well grown or well developed.

the inheritance augmented his fortune

In what contexts can enlarge take the place of increase?

While in some cases nearly identical to increase, enlarge implies expansion or extension that makes greater in size or capacity.

enlarged the kitchen

Where would multiply be a reasonable alternative to increase?

The words multiply and increase can be used in similar contexts, but multiply implies increase in number by natural generation or by indefinite repetition of a process.

with each attempt the problems multiplied

Example 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 increase This significantly increases the probability of destroying small drones, which can be difficult to hit directly due to their size and maneuverability. Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 6 June 2026 Much of the expansion is driven by increasing consumer interest in unique experiences and learning about local cuisine, beverages, and culture. Liz Thach, Forbes.com, 6 June 2026 At the same time, repression is increasing and arrests are rising. Sarah Moreno june 5, Miami Herald, 6 June 2026 To help manage side effects, participants in the weight loss trial began with lower doses that were gradually increased over the first few weeks. Berkeley Lovelace Jr, NBC news, 6 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for increase
Recent Examples of Synonyms for increase
Verb
  • Publix is set to open five new stores by early July, expanding its footprint in Florida and Kentucky as the grocery chain continues steady growth across the Southeast.
    Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA Today, 9 June 2026
  • As part of the deal announced Monday, Amazon will work with Corning on a new program to expand a fiber-optic technician training program at Catawba Valley Community College based in Hickory.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 8 June 2026
Verb
  • Supply disruptions have also hit hard in Europe and Africa, where countries are responding to rising fuel costs and a considerable threat to food security.
    Sam Meredith, CNBC, 5 June 2026
  • Airlines have faced rising fuel costs as the conflict in Iran has disrupted global oil supplies and increased energy prices.
    City News Service, Daily News, 4 June 2026
Verb
  • By contrast, William Mott’s Chief Wallabee’s role in the race can be boosted by his post position, and the trainer has added blinkers this evening to help his athlete’s concentration when the going gets tough.
    Guy Martin, Forbes.com, 6 June 2026
  • But depending on how much healthcare costs rise and boost Medicare spending, that threshold could come much sooner.
    Jason Ma, Fortune, 6 June 2026
Verb
  • Hufanga, who faced the Hill-Waddle tandem firsthand while playing for San Francisco back then, noted the duo’s ability to accelerate and decelerate to disguise in-breaking routes as deep routes and vice versa.
    Luca Evans, Denver Post, 7 June 2026
  • The kingdom is also accelerating spending on defense — which has taken on an even greater importance because of the war with Iran — and investments tied to artificial intelligence, logistics, and infrastructure needed for Expo 2030 and the 2034 men’s soccer World Cup.
    Matthew Martin, semafor.com, 7 June 2026
Verb
  • From there, more would have to balance the trade financially, as well as in terms of prospects that could either augment Milwaukee’s mix or be flipped otherwise.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 6 June 2026
  • Whatever the final cost, the program is clearly designed to build both new missile defense capabilities and to augment existing space infrastructure—creating exciting market opportunities for both traditional space primes and new market entrants.
    Michael P. Dempsey, Forbes.com, 5 June 2026
Verb
  • Behind the glass sat a sea-foam green Hermes 3000, a pre-1966 model, instantly recognizable by its bulbous body and soft, swelling curves.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 2 June 2026
  • Lucas Mukasa / Anadolu via Getty Images Angry protests swelled Monday, including in the central town of Nanyuki, which is set to host the quarantine center.
    Mithil Aggarwal, NBC news, 2 June 2026
Verb
  • Similar concerns were raised about the merger of the SAG and AFTRA health plans in 2017, which was followed by a significant curtailment in benefits a few years later.
    Gene Maddaus, Variety, 5 June 2026
  • Set to retail for $5,385, discounts were offered to those who preordered the trolley as part of a crowdfunding drive that raised roughly $1 million.
    Jack Bantock, CNN Money, 5 June 2026
Verb
  • Two local governments in California have voted to declare a local emergency over the invasive golden mussels that are rapidly multiplying and clogging water pipes.
    Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA Today, 29 May 2026
  • Every foot off target is a point added to the score, and every second outside the duration target is multiplied by four and added to the score.
    Ashley Mackin Solomon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Increase.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/increase. Accessed 9 Jun. 2026.

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