Refine Meaning in English
word
ɹəˈfaɪn/, /ɹɪˈfaɪn
ri-FINE
ɹɪfˈaɪn
ri-FINE
Definition
To make something pure by removing unwanted parts, or to improve something by making small changes so it becomes better or more precise.
Usage & Nuances
Often formal or technical. Common with substances (oil, sugar) and skills, ideas, or methods ('refine your technique'). Not used for making large changes—implies gradual, careful improvement. Don't confuse with 'define' or 'confine'.
Spanish: refinar - perfeccionarPortuguese (BR): refinar - aprimorarPortuguese (PT): refinar - aperfeiçoarChinese (Simplified): 提炼 - 精炼 - 改进Chinese (Traditional): 提煉 - 精煉 - 改進Hindi: परिष्कृत करना - सुधारनाArabic: يُنقّي - يُحَسِّنBengali: পরিশোধন করা - উন্নত করাRussian: очищать - совершенствоватьJapanese: 精製する - 洗練するVietnamese: tinh chế - cải tiếnKorean: 정제하다 - 다듬다Turkish: rafine etmek - geliştirmekUrdu: صاف کرنا - بہتر بناناIndonesian: memurnikan - menyempurnakan
Example Sentences
They refine crude oil to make gasoline.
basic
This company refines sugar to sell in stores.
basic
He wants to refine his English skills.
basic
We need to refine our plan before the meeting.
natural
Her writing style really refined after taking that course.
natural
If you refine the recipe just a bit, it will taste amazing.
natural