Better
/ˈbɛtər/
adjectiveadverbverbnounA2
Definition
Better is used when comparing two or more things to say one is more good, more useful, or more pleasant than the other. It can describe something improved or of higher quality. Better can also mean to improve or make something more good.
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⚡ See It in Action
Adjective/adverb: more good or improved compared to something else
- •This book is better than the one I read last week.
- •She sings better now after practicing every day.
- •The weather is better today than yesterday.
Verb: to improve or do something in a better way
- •He wants to better his English skills.
- •They bettered their previous record in the race.
Noun: a person or thing that is better than another
- •She is my better in chess; I always lose to her.
🧲 Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "better" like "good," but more than good—something improved or more useful
- ✓Picture two apples: one is fresh and sweet, the other is old and soft; the fresh one is better
- ✓It's the feeling when you do something and it goes well, or when you find a solution that works more easily
- ✓Sounds like "bet-ter" → imagine winning a bet because you chose the better option
- ✓Remember when you choose better clothes for a special day—better means more suitable and nicer
- ✓NOT like "good" (just okay or fine), "better" means more good or improved
- ✓NOT like "best" (the top one), "better" is a comparison but not the very top
- ✓As a verb, "to better" means to make something more good or improve it
🔄 Try Other Words
- •Improved: made better or more good (Use when focusing on the process of getting better)
- •Superior: higher in quality or status (Use in formal contexts to show something is better in rank or quality)
- •Preferable: more suitable or liked (Use when choosing one thing over another)
🔍 Unboxing
- •Word parts: base word "better" (no prefix or suffix)
- •Etymology: From Old English "betera," comparative form of "good" meaning more good
- •Historical development: Used since early English to compare quality or ability
- •Modern usage: Commonly used in everyday speech to show comparison or improvement
- •Key insight: "Better" is a simple comparative word that helps show one thing is more good than another
💭 Reflect & Connect
•Can something be better for one person but not for another? How do we decide what is better?
•How do you feel when you get better at a skill or activity? What helps you improve?
Fill in the blanks with the correct word:
1.This restaurant is better ___ the one we tried last week because the food is fresher.
2.She feels better ___ she rested well last night and ate healthy food.
3.To get better at playing the guitar, you need to practice ___.
4.His grades got better ___ he started studying more regularly.
5.When choosing clothes, comfort is often better ___ style for long days.
6.She is my better ___ math; she always solves problems faster than me.
7.They worked hard to better ___ their last performance in the competition.