English Profile

development · noun

/dɪˈvel.əp.mənt/Full view

Word family

Nouns: developer, development, redevelopment

Adjectives: developed, developing, developmental, undeveloped

Verbs: develop

development (CHANGE)

B1 U when someone or something grows or changes and becomes more advanced

Dictionary examples:

healthy growth and development

The program traced the development of popular music through the ages.

a development project in Pakistan

Learner example:

There are some machines which have helped in my development, and others which help to make my life easier. (First Certificate in English; B2; Spanish)

development (PROCESS)

B1 U the process of developing something new

Dictionary examples:

the development of new drugs

Mr. Berkowitz is in charge of product development.

Learner example:

Owing to the great speed of technological development, people need to lead a faster life. (First Certificate in English; B2; Turkish)

development (EVENT)

B2 C something new that happens and changes a situation

Dictionary examples:

an important development in the fuel crisis

Phone me if there are any new developments.

Learner example:

There have been impressive developments in technology lately. (First Certificate in English; B2; Spanish)

development (START)

C2 U when something starts to happen or exist

Dictionary example:

New vacccines may prevent the development of some cancers.

Learner example:

The aims taken into account [i]n the establishment of the "Health fund" are varied and cover different areas such as the education of the general public on the issues of health itself, [and] the threat posed by the development of cancer and Aids, etc. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Portuguese)