upgrade

A newer or better part or item added to replace an older one, especially in a computer.

• The computer needs a memory upgrade.
• I installed an upgrade yesterday.
• This upgrade makes the system run faster.

Similar words: replacement, update

Common phrases: memory upgrade, software upgrade, install an upgrade

A change that makes something better than it was before.

• They gave us a free upgrade.
• The new kitchen is a major upgrade.
• Would you like an upgrade to first class?

How to use it: an upgrade to something (We received an upgrade to a larger room.)

Similar words: improvement

Opposites: downgrade

Common phrases: room upgrade, free upgrade, major upgrade

To replace something with a newer or better version.

• I need to upgrade my phone.
• We upgraded our office computers last year.
• Are you planning to upgrade to a newer model?

How to use it: upgrade something to something (We upgraded our old phone to a newer model.); upgrade to something (She upgraded to a better camera.)

Similar words: replace, modernize

Opposites: downgrade

Common phrases: upgrade a phone, upgrade your computer, upgrade to something

To improve something, often by adding or replacing parts.

• They upgraded the heating system.
• The town is upgrading its sports facilities.
• Adding memory can upgrade an older computer.

Similar words: improve, modernize

Opposites: downgrade

Common phrases: upgrade the system, upgrade equipment, upgrade local facilities

To replace a computer program with a newer version of that program.

• Please upgrade your browser.
• I upgraded the software this morning.
• Have you upgraded to the latest version?

How to use it: upgrade from something to something (We upgraded from version three to version four.)

Similar words: update

Opposites: downgrade

Common phrases: upgrade the software, upgrade your browser, upgrade to something