refine
/ɹɪˈfaɪn/
Group 16Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To remove impurities from; to improve by making subtle changes GRE
Example in Context
The team continued to refine the algorithm over successive iterations until its accuracy surpassed all existing benchmarks.
Synonyms
polishimproveperfect
Etymology
To make something limited or perfect again by removing impurities.
- re- (Latin) — again
- finis (Latin) — end, limit
Memory Aid
💎Sounds like “re-fine”
Picture a jeweler RE-FINING a diamond so much that it sparkles like it's been CRYING with joy!
Visual Association
🔍A scientist peering through a microscope, adjusting gears to make a potion sparkle brilliantly.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “refine” mean on the GRE?
refine (verb) means “To remove impurities from; to improve by making subtle changes”. The team continued to refine the algorithm over successive iterations until its accuracy surpassed all existing benchmarks.
How to remember “refine” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “refine” sounds like “re-fine”. Picture a jeweler RE-FINING a diamond so much that it sparkles like it's been CRYING with joy!
What are synonyms for “refine”?
Common synonyms: polish, improve, perfect.