become
word
/bɪˈkəm/
bi-KUHM
/bɪkˈʌm/
bi-KUHM
Definition
To start to be something new or to change into a different state, condition, or role.
Usage & Nuances
Common and neutral; often used with adjectives and nouns ('become famous', 'become a doctor'). Sometimes confused with 'get' in casual speech; 'become' is more formal. Not used for physical changes ('the apple became eaten' is incorrect).
Spanish: convertirse - llegar a serPortuguese (BR): tornar-se - ficarPortuguese (PT): tornar-se - ficarChinese (Simplified): 变成 - 成为Chinese (Traditional): 變成 - 成為Hindi: बननाArabic: يصبحBengali: হওয়া - পরিণত হওয়াRussian: стать - становитьсяJapanese: ～になるVietnamese: trở thànhKorean: 되다Turkish: olmakUrdu: بنناIndonesian: menjadi
Example Sentences
She wants to become a teacher.
basic
Ice becomes water when it melts.
basic
The sky became dark before the storm.
basic
It's amazing how quickly kids become independent.
natural
Don't let this become a bigger problem.
natural
He dreams of becoming a professional musician someday.
natural