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innovate

C1
verb

Pronunciation

UK

  • /ˈɪnəvˌeɪt/

US

  • /ˈɪnəˌveɪt/
  • /ˈɪnoʊˌveɪt/

Description

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.

Examples

  1. 1

    Business competition

    Small companies often need to innovate to compete with bigger brands.

  2. 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. 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. 4

    Restaurant adaptation

    During the pandemic, many restaurants innovated by offering meal kits and online cooking classes.

  5. 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