growth
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /ɡrˈəʊθ/
US
- /ˈɡroʊθ/
Description
- increase
- development
- expansion
- progress
Growth isn't just about getting bigger, though it often involves that. It's the process of becoming more, whether it's a tiny seed pushing through soil to become a tall tree, a child learning to ride a bike, or an idea turning into something real. You see growth in nature, in people, and even in things like businesses and economies. A small bakery might see fast growth after winning a local award, while a shy student might show personal growth by volunteering to give a presentation. Sometimes growth is easy and joyful; other times, it's hard and takes effort, but it usually points to positive change and progress.
Growth describes the process of increasing in size, number, strength, or value. It's a basic idea that applies across many areas of life, from biology to economics to personal development. Think about a plant growing taller, a baby gaining weight, or a city expanding its boundaries - all examples of physical growth.
But growth isn't limited to the physical world. We talk about intellectual growth when someone learns new skills or gains knowledge. Emotional growth refers to developing greater self-awareness and maturity. A company might experience revenue growth after launching a successful product, or an artist might show artistic growth by trying new techniques.
Growth can be measured, like tracking the height of a child or the profits of a business, but it's also often subjective. What counts as growth for one person may differ from what counts as growth for another. Sometimes growth is slow and steady, while other times it happens in bursts. It can be planned and intentional, or unexpected and natural.
The word "growth" functions as a noun (e.g., "the company experienced significant growth"), while the action itself is described by the verb "grow" (e.g., "her confidence grew over time"). It's a strong idea that expresses progress, development, and the potential for positive change. So whether you're caring for a garden, pursuing a goal, or simply learning from experience, remember that growth is an ongoing journey, not just a destination.
Examples
- 1
Plant development
Plants need light and water for healthy growth.
- 2
Business performance
The company has shown steady growth this year.
- 3
Population change
The city is trying to manage rapid population growth.
- 4
Sales increase
We saw strong growth in online sales last month.
Pattern
growth in + area
an increase in that area
- 5
Work trends
The growth of remote work has changed office culture.
Pattern
the growth of + thing/trend
the way it becomes larger or more common
- 6
Improvement chance
There is still plenty of room for growth in the team.
Phrase
room for growth
space or chance to improve
- 7
Personal development
Living abroad gave her a lot of personal growth.
- 8
Teenagers
Teenagers often go through a growth spurt.
Phrase
growth spurt
a short period of very fast growth
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- growthnoun
Forms
- growthspluralnoun