increase
word
Definition
To become greater in size, number, amount, or level, or to make something greater. It can be used as both a verb and a noun.
Usage & Nuances
Very common in everyday, business, academic, and news English. As a verb, patterns include 'increase prices', 'increase by 10%', and 'increase from A to B'. As a noun, common collocations are 'an increase in prices' and 'a sharp/slight increase'. Learners often confuse 'increase' with 'raise': 'increase' can be intransitive ('prices increased'), but 'raise' usually needs an object ('they raised prices').
Example Sentences
Prices increase every year.
basic
The company wants to increase sales.
basic
There was a big increase in traffic this morning.
basic
We need to increase the budget if we want better results.
natural
Since last month, demand has increased a lot.
natural
They announced a small pay increase, but people were still disappointed.
natural