reforming: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Formal to Neutral
Quick answer
What does “reforming” mean?
The process of making changes to something in order to improve it, especially an institution, law, or system.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The process of making changes to something in order to improve it, especially an institution, law, or system.
In chemistry, the process of altering the molecular structure of a hydrocarbon to improve its fuel quality. Also refers to the act of changing one's own behaviour or character for the better.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minimal. UK English might slightly favour 'reform' in political contexts (e.g., 'NHS reform'), while US usage is similar. The gerund 'reforming' is used identically.
Connotations
Generally neutral-positive in both, implying positive change. Can be contentious depending on the specific reform proposed (e.g., 'welfare reforming').
Frequency
Comparatively high in political, social, and economic discourse in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “reforming” in a Sentence
[Subject] + be + reforming + [Object] (e.g., The government is reforming the law.)[Subject] + begin/continue/stop + reforming[Subject] + need + reforming (passive sense) (e.g., The system needs reforming.)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “reforming” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The government is reforming the healthcare system to reduce waiting times.
- He spent years reforming the company's outdated practices.
American English
- The administration is reforming the tax code to simplify it for families.
- She is committed to reforming the criminal justice system.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to restructuring business processes, corporate governance, or financial regulations.
Academic
Used in political science, economics, history, and social policy to describe systematic institutional change.
Everyday
Used for personal improvement (e.g., 'reforming his diet') or discussing changes to public services.
Technical
In petrochemistry, refers to the catalytic reforming process to produce high-octane petrol.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “reforming”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “reforming”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “reforming”
- Using 'reforming' as a simple synonym for 'changing'. (It implies improvement.)
- Incorrect spelling: 're-form-ing' (which means to form again, a different concept).
- Using it as a countable noun (e.g., 'a reforming') – it is usually uncountable or a gerund.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not necessarily. While it implies intent to improve, whether the change is viewed positively depends on perspective. 'Radical reforming' can be seen as threatening by some.
'Reforming' specifically implies change designed to correct faults, remove injustices, or improve efficiency. 'Changing' is neutral and can be for any reason.
Yes, it can describe someone trying to improve their own character or habits (e.g., 'a reforming gambler'), or someone who advocates for institutional reform (e.g., 'a reforming politician').
Yes, but 'the reform of the law' is more concise and common. 'Reforming' as a gerund is often used after verbs (e.g., 'They discussed reforming the law').
The process of making changes to something in order to improve it, especially an institution, law, or system.
Reforming is usually formal to neutral in register.
Reforming: in British English it is pronounced /rɪˈfɔːmɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /rɪˈfɔːrmɪŋ/ or /rəˈfɔːrmɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A reforming zeal”
- “Set on a course of reforming”
- “In need of a good reforming”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of RE-FORMING: giving something a NEW FORM or shape to make it better.
Conceptual Metaphor
REFORMING IS REMODELING (a building), REFORMING IS PURIFYING (a substance), REFORMING IS HEALING (a sick system).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'reforming' used in a primarily technical, non-political sense?