Reading Theme:
Refurbishment Definition, Examples & Usage
Meaning 1：restoration and renovation (refurbishment)
refurbishment
/rɪˈfɜːrbɪʃmənt/
n.
the process of cleaning, repairing, and improving an old building or object to make it look and work like new again.
restoration and renovation
➕
/ˌrɛstəˈreɪʃən ænd ˌrɛnəˈveɪʃən/
n.
The act of restoring something to a good condition, typically a building or object, through cleaning, repairing, and updating.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From re- (again) + furbish (to polish) + -ment, meaning to polish again.
💡 Mnemonic
Re-furbish = re (again) + fur (animal hair) + bish? Imagine a bear getting a new fur coat.
📖 Example
The city library is closed for refurbishment, but everyone is excited to see its modern interior when it reopens next year.
The city library is closed for refurbishment, but everyone is excited to see its modern interior when it reopens next year.
🔗 Collocations
undergo refurbishment – to experience the process of being refurbished
refurbishment project – a plan or undertaking to refurbish something
complete refurbishment – a thorough refurbishment that finishes the process
🔄 Synonyms
renovation (n.) – the process of renewing and restoring a building or room to a good condition
restoration (n.) – the act of bringing something back to its original condition
overhaul (n.) – a thorough examination and repair of a system or machine
🚫 Antonyms
neglect (n.) – the state of being uncared for
deterioration (n.) – the process of becoming progressively worse
ruin (n.) – the state of being destroyed or severely damaged
🌱 Derivatives
refurbish (v.) – to renovate and redecorate
refurbished (adj.) – that has been renovated and improved
refurbisher (n.) – a person or company that refurbishes things
📖 Cultural Story
Originally from Old French 'furbir' (to polish). In modern English, it's commonly used for the restoration of historic landmarks like the Ritz Hotel in London.
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