To make something better than an existing version; the formal equivalent of 'improve on'.
To do something better than how it was done before — used in formal writing.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To achieve something of higher quality or performance than an existing benchmark.
"It is hard to improve upon Shakespeare's use of the English language."
You can't improve upon perfection.
— Common proverbial expression in English usage
To modify or develop something so that it functions better than before.
"The new model significantly improves upon its predecessor in terms of fuel efficiency."
Functionally identical to 'improve on' but preferred in formal, written, or academic contexts. Common in phrases like 'difficult to improve upon' or 'impossible to improve upon'. More frequent in British English than in American English.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Listen to native speakers using "improve upon" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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