better

Formsbetters, bettering, bettered

Pluralbetters

1. 1
   adjective

   Comparative of good. Of higher quality, more suitable, or more useful than something else.

   This phone is better than my old one.

   Her second attempt was much better than her first.

   UsageSay better than and much better (not incorrect: more better).

   Note
2. 2
   adverb

   In a more skillful or successful way, or simply more, as in 'I like tea better.' Comparative of well.

   She sings better than her brother.

   The team played better in the second half.

   UsageUsually put it after the verb or its object: she sings better. I like tea better.

   Note
3. 3
   adjective

   Less ill than before, or well again after being sick or hurt.

   Like a wound that has fully closed up and stopped hurting.

   After two weeks in bed, she is finally better.

   The doctor said he won't be better until the cast comes off.

   UsageAll better means well again. Feeling better means less sick.

   Similarwell, healthy

   Oppositeill, sick, worse

   Note
4. 4
   verbcolloquialauxiliarymodal

   Ought to, used to tell someone strongly what they should do.

   You better finish your homework before dinner.

   We better leave now if we want to catch the train.

   UsageUse the plain verb after it: you better go (not incorrect: you better to go).

   Similarshould

   Note
5. 5
   improveverbtransitive

   To make something better, or to get better, as in better your chances.

   She worked hard to better her exam scores.

   The company bettered its safety record last year.

   UsageOften better yourself or better your life.

   Similarimprove, enhance, advance

   Oppositeworsen

   Note

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