update
C1neutral to formal
Definition
Meaning
to make something more modern or current by adding new information or making changes
the act or result of updating; a new version or piece of information that replaces or adds to previous information
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Can function as both verb and noun. As a noun, often refers to a specific piece of new information or a software version. Implies improvement or correction rather than complete replacement.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Both use the word identically across contexts.
Connotations
Slightly more formal in British English in some contexts, but equally common in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally frequent in both varieties, with high usage in technology, business, and media contexts.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
update somethingupdate somebody on somethingupdate something to somethingbe updated with somethingVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “keep someone updated”
- “stay updated”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used for progress reports, market information changes, and client briefings.
Academic
Refers to new research findings, revised theories, or literature reviews.
Everyday
Common in social contexts for sharing personal news or current events.
Technical
Primarily refers to software patches, firmware upgrades, or database modifications.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- Please update the spreadsheet with the latest figures.
- I'll update you on the meeting outcomes tomorrow.
American English
- We need to update our software to fix the security vulnerability.
- Can you update the team about the schedule change?
adverb
British English
- The system runs update regularly.
- They communicate update frequently.
American English
- The app checks for updates automatically.
- We'll send information update periodically.
adjective
British English
- The update version includes several bug fixes.
- She provided update information during the briefing.
American English
- Make sure you have the update file before installing.
- The update schedule has been moved to Friday.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- I update my phone every month.
- My friend gave me an update about her holiday.
- The teacher will update the class website with homework assignments.
- Have you received any update about your job application?
- The software requires an urgent update to address security vulnerabilities.
- We need to update our marketing strategy based on the latest consumer trends.
- The research team periodically updates the database with newly sequenced genomes.
- The quarterly financial update revealed unexpected growth in emerging markets.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'UP' (to a higher level) + 'DATE' (current time) = bringing something up to the current date.
Conceptual Metaphor
INFORMATION IS A LIVING ENTITY THAT NEEDS NOURISHMENT (feeding updates)
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid translating as 'апдейт' in formal writing
- Don't confuse with 'upgrade' (улучшение) - update is about currency, upgrade is about quality
Common Mistakes
- Using 'update' when 'upgrade' is meant (update = new information, upgrade = better version)
- Incorrect stress: /ˈʌpdeɪt/ instead of /ʌpˈdeɪt/ in British English
Practice
Quiz
Which context is LEAST appropriate for using 'update'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It's commonly used as both, but the verb form is slightly more frequent in everyday language.
Update focuses on making something current with new information, while upgrade implies improving to a better version or standard.
Yes, it's perfectly acceptable in formal contexts like reports, presentations, and official communications.
In British English: /ˌʌpˈdeɪt/ (stress on 'date'). In American English: /ˈʌpˌdeɪt/ (primary stress on 'up', secondary on 'date').
Collections
Part of a collection
Technology Basics
A2 · 48 words · Everyday technology and digital devices.
Media and Communication
B1 · 50 words · Language for discussing media and communication.