modernize
modernize — verb
- modernizepresent simple I / you / we / they
- modernizeshe / she / it
- modernizedpast simple
- modernizing-ing form
1. to change or update something — such as a building, system, or piece of equipmen
to change or update something — such as a building, system, or piece of equipment — so that it reflects the styles and technology that people expect today
The hospital board decided to modernize the children's wing with new equipment.
collocation: modernize + [wing / department of a building]
Lara modernized the family kitchen by installing an induction cooktop and smart lighting.
collocation: modernize + [kitchen / room]
The company modernized its booking system, allowing customers to reserve rooms online.
Aarav's team modernized the old factory's heating system over the winter break.
Many schools are modernizing their classrooms with tablets and digital whiteboards.
- update
broader and less formal; can mean making small changes or adding new information rather than a thorough transformation
- upgrade
emphasises improving quality, performance, or capability rather than just updating the look
- renovate
focuses on repairing and restoring something to good condition, which may or may not make it look modern
- preserve
keeping something in its original state instead of modernising it
文法句型
modernize + noun phrase (object is a building, system or piece of equipment)
用法筆記
Subject is usually a person, organisation, or institution. The object is typically a physical building, a room, or a functional system — not a person.
常見錯誤
2. to change your own methods, equipment, or style so that you use current technolo
to change your own methods, equipment, or style so that you use current technology or follow modern ways of doing things — used without an object, describing a person, company, or country that updates itself
The small town modernized after the railway brought new trade and visitors.
intransitive: subject (town) modernizes without an object
To attract younger customers, the hotel needs to modernize without losing its charm.
Hyun says the company can modernize by switching to cloud-based software.
Farms that fail to modernize often struggle to compete in the global market.
As demand grew, the small bakery modernized and started accepting online orders.
- stagnate
to stop developing or making progress, remaining in an old state
文法句型
subject + modernize
subject + modernize + by + gerund phrase
用法筆記
Frequently used in business writing to describe a company or industry that updates its practices. Unlike sense 1, there is no direct object — the subject changes itself. A common pattern is 'modernize by + -ing' which explains the method of change.