Reform
What it means
To improve a system or practice by correcting recognized faults.
Reach for it when describing purposeful structural improvement rather than cosmetic change
The new rules reform procurement by publishing every bid.
Words to choose between 6
| playful | |
|---|---|
| everyday | |
| professional |
|
| formal | |
| literary |
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playful
Fits when extensive practical change is undertaken
Careful Overhaul implies near-total redesign.
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everyday
Fits when a known error is fixed
Careful Correction can be one small act.
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everyday
Fits when something becomes better in a general way
Careful Improvement need not address structural faults.
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professional
Fits when outdated processes are updated
Careful Modernization is not automatically fairer.
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formal
Fits when a law or text receives specific changes
Careful Amending may be minor.
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literary
Fits when change is profound and wide
Careful Transformation may not solve the right problem.
Opposites 3
- corrupt
- preserve abuses
- worsen
Common phrases 3
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reform the system
Citizen panels helped reform the system.
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reform outdated rules
The bill would reform outdated rules on access.
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meaningfully reform
Transparency can meaningfully reform public purchasing.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: TreeMama, American accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 Updated