innovate
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɪnəvˌeɪt/
US
- /ˈɪnəˌveɪt/
- /ˈɪnoʊˌveɪt/
Description
- create something new
- improve in a new way
- bring in new ideas
To innovate is not just about having a bright idea. It is about doing something with it. Think of the first person who put wheels on a suitcase. They did not just think, "Wheels would help." They actually made one, and travel became easier. That is what it means in real life.
It often means taking ideas that already exist and using them in a new way, or finding a better answer to an old problem. Companies try to improve their products so they can stand out. Artists do it when they try new styles or methods. Sometimes the change is big, and sometimes it is a small step that still makes everyday life better.
To innovate means to introduce and use something new, such as an idea, method, or product. It is close to "invent," but the meaning is often wider. A person can invent something completely new, while a person or company can innovate by making an existing thing work in a better or fresher way.
It is not always about a huge breakthrough. Small improvements also count. Think about smartphones: each new model is usually not a completely new invention, but it may still show new features, better design, or a smarter way of doing something.
The word often appears in business, technology, education, and the arts. We may talk about an "innovative company" that brings out fresh products, or "innovative teaching methods" that help students learn in a better way. It can also be used for social change, such as finding new ways to deal with poverty, health problems, or climate issues.
The word comes from the Latin innovare, which means "to renew." Because of that, it often carries the idea of progress and positive change.
So whether the change is large or small, to innovate is to bring in a new idea or a better way of doing something that has a real effect.
Examples
- 1
Business competition
Small companies often need to innovate to compete with bigger brands.
- 2
Patient care
The hospital is trying to innovate in patient care, not just in technology.
Pattern
innovate in + area
develop new ideas in that area
- 3
Classroom activities
Our teacher keeps innovating with classroom activities, so lessons never feel repetitive.
Pattern
innovate with + tool/activity
use it in a new or creative way
- 4
Restaurant adaptation
During the pandemic, many restaurants innovated by offering meal kits and online cooking classes.
- 5
Workplace limits
It's hard to innovate when every decision has to go through three managers.
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- innovateverb
Forms
- innovating-ing formverb
- innovatedpast tenseverb
- innovatesverb