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B1 noun #17 le plus courant 12 min de lecture

remodeling

Top 17

At the A1 level, 'remodeling' is a bit of a difficult word, but you can understand it as 'making a house new' or 'changing a room.' Imagine you have a bedroom. If you move the bed, paint the walls a new color, and put in a new window, you are remodeling. It is like giving your house a new look. You might say, 'I want to change my kitchen,' which is a simpler way to say it. At this level, just remember that remodeling means big changes to a house or a room. You use it when you talk about your home and making it better. It is a long word, but it is very common in the USA. Think of it as 're-' (again) and 'model' (shape). So, you are shaping your house again. You can use it in simple sentences like, 'My dad is remodeling the bathroom.' This means the bathroom will look very different soon.

For A2 learners, 'remodeling' is a noun that describes the action of improving a building. It is more than just cleaning or painting. It usually means changing how a room is built. For example, if you take out a wall to make your living room bigger, that is remodeling. You will often see this word in advertisements for houses or on TV shows about homes. You can use it with verbs like 'start' or 'finish.' For example: 'We started the remodeling last week.' It is important to know that this word is often used for kitchens and bathrooms because those are the rooms people change the most. If you are visiting a friend and their house is messy because of construction, they might say, 'Sorry for the mess, we are remodeling.' This helps you understand why there are tools and dust everywhere. It is a useful word for talking about your home and your plans for the future.

At the B1 level, you should understand 'remodeling' as the process of structural or functional alteration to a building. This is a step up from 'renovating,' which often just means refreshing the appearance. Remodeling involves changing the layout, such as converting a basement into a living area or adding a new bathroom. It is a common topic in conversations about home ownership and investment. You should be able to use it in more complex sentences, such as 'The remodeling project took longer than expected because of the weather.' You will also encounter it in professional contexts, like when a store closes for a few weeks to change its interior. At this level, you should also be aware of the spelling difference: 'remodeling' in American English and 'remodelling' in British English. It is a key word for discussing property, construction, and design in a clear and accurate way.

At the B2 level, 'remodeling' is a versatile term that you can use in both literal and metaphorical contexts. Literally, it refers to significant structural changes to a building, often requiring architectural plans and building permits. You should understand the economic implications, such as how remodeling can increase a property's market value or 'curb appeal.' You might use it in a sentence like, 'The comprehensive remodeling of the office space was designed to foster a more collaborative work environment.' Metaphorically, 'remodeling' can refer to the restructuring of a business, a system, or even a person's lifestyle. For example, 'The company is undergoing a major remodeling of its corporate strategy.' At this level, you should be able to distinguish 'remodeling' from similar terms like 'refurbishment,' 'overhaul,' and 'restoration,' choosing the one that best fits the specific type of change being described. You should also be comfortable using it as a gerund-noun in various grammatical positions.

For C1 learners, 'remodeling' represents a sophisticated concept involving the intersection of architecture, economics, and social trends. You should be able to discuss the nuances of remodeling in the context of urban development, gentrification, and sustainable design. For instance, you might analyze how the remodeling of historic districts can lead to the displacement of long-term residents while simultaneously revitalizing the local economy. In professional writing, you would use 'remodeling' to describe complex structural modifications, often involving the integration of new technologies or the repurposing of industrial spaces for residential use. You should also be familiar with the technical jargon associated with remodeling, such as 'load-bearing walls,' 'zoning ordinances,' and 'retrofitting.' Your use of the word should reflect an understanding of its impact on the 'built environment' and its role in the continuous evolution of human habitats. You can use it to articulate subtle differences in project scope and intent with precision.

At the C2 level, 'remodeling' is a term you can wield with absolute precision and stylistic flair. You can explore its philosophical implications, viewing remodeling as a physical manifestation of the human desire for progress and adaptation. You might use it in a critique of contemporary architecture, discussing how the trend of 'adaptive reuse' is a form of remodeling that honors the past while serving the present. Your vocabulary should include highly specific synonyms and related concepts, allowing you to discuss 'structural reconfiguration,' 'aesthetic metamorphosis,' or 'functional paradigm shifts' within the realm of remodeling. You should be able to navigate the complex legal and ethical landscapes surrounding large-scale remodeling projects, such as those involving heritage sites or public infrastructure. In your speech and writing, 'remodeling' becomes a tool for high-level analysis, whether you are discussing the literal transformation of a skyscraper or the metaphorical remodeling of a nation's constitutional framework. You use the word to convey deep insight into the processes of change and renewal.

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

remodeling en 30 secondes

Remodeling involves making significant structural or functional changes to a building or room to improve its utility and appearance.
It is different from renovation, which focuses on refreshing the look, and restoration, which focuses on returning to an original state.
Common remodeling projects include kitchens, bathrooms, and basement conversions, often aimed at increasing property value or improving lifestyle.
The term is used both literally in construction and metaphorically in business and personal development to describe fundamental restructuring.

Remodeling is a comprehensive term used to describe the process of changing the structure, shape, or layout of a physical space, most commonly a residential or commercial building. Unlike simple repairs, remodeling involves a fundamental transformation. When you hear someone talk about remodeling, they aren't just talking about a fresh coat of paint; they are talking about moving walls, changing the purpose of a room, or adding entirely new sections to a structure. It is the physical manifestation of evolution within a living or working environment. People use this word when they are dissatisfied with the current utility of their space or when they wish to modernize an outdated architectural design. It is a word deeply rooted in the concepts of improvement, investment, and personalization. In the context of real estate, remodeling is often seen as a strategic move to increase property value, while in a personal context, it is about aligning one's surroundings with their lifestyle needs.

Structural Alteration: This refers to the act of changing the load-bearing elements or the internal configuration of a building, such as removing a wall to create an open-concept kitchen.
Functional Repurposing: This occurs when a space is changed to serve a different goal, such as remodeling a basement into a home cinema or a garage into a guest suite.
Aesthetic Overhaul: While structural changes are key, remodeling also encompasses a total visual change, replacing old fixtures with modern, high-end materials to create a specific atmosphere.

The act of remodeling is a significant undertaking that usually requires planning, permits, and professional expertise. It is a journey from an old, perhaps inefficient state, to a new, optimized reality. In modern discourse, remodeling is frequently discussed in the media, specifically on television networks dedicated to home improvement, where the 'before and after' reveal is a central trope. This has made the word a staple in the vocabulary of homeowners and aspiring decorators alike. It represents the hope of renewal and the tangible result of hard work and financial investment.

The homeowners decided that remodeling the kitchen was the best way to increase the resale value of their property before putting it on the market.

After the flood, the family viewed the necessary remodeling as an opportunity to finally build the open-plan living area they had always dreamed of.

Commercial remodeling can be a complex process involving strict adherence to zoning laws and safety regulations.

The remodeling project was delayed by several weeks due to the unexpected discovery of outdated electrical wiring behind the plaster walls.

She spent months researching different remodeling styles, eventually settling on a mid-century modern aesthetic for her living room.

Ultimately, remodeling is about the intersection of architecture and lifestyle. It is a response to the changing needs of humans within their built environment. Whether it is a small-scale bathroom update or a massive commercial overhaul, remodeling represents the continuous cycle of destruction and creation that keeps our living spaces relevant and functional in an ever-changing world.

Using the word 'remodeling' correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a gerund or a noun. It functions as the name of an activity. You can use it as the subject of a sentence, the object of a verb, or after a preposition. For instance, as a subject: 'Remodeling is expensive.' As an object: 'I enjoy remodeling.' Because it describes a process, it is often paired with verbs that indicate the start, continuation, or completion of a project. Verbs like 'begin,' 'finish,' 'undergo,' 'plan,' and 'supervise' are common companions. When you use 'remodeling,' you are focusing on the entire project as a single concept. It is also very common to see it used as a modifier for other nouns, creating compound nouns like 'remodeling project,' 'remodeling contractor,' or 'remodeling budget.'

As a Subject: Remodeling can be a stressful experience for many families due to the noise and dust.
As a Direct Object: The company recently completed the remodeling of its headquarters to include more collaborative spaces.
As a Modifier: We need to hire a remodeling expert to ensure the structural integrity of the house remains intact.

It is important to note the spelling difference between American and British English. In American English, it is 'remodeling' (one 'l'), while in British English, it is 'remodelling' (two 'l's). Both are correct, but you should be consistent based on your target audience. In sentences, remodeling often takes an 'of' phrase to specify what is being changed. For example, 'the remodeling of the attic.' This clarifies the scope of the work. You might also use it in the context of time, such as 'during the remodeling,' to describe events that happened while the work was ongoing. This temporal use is very common in narrative descriptions of home life or business operations.

The remodeling of the old library took nearly two years to complete.

Are you planning on remodeling the basement yourself or hiring a professional?

The total cost of the remodeling exceeded our initial estimates by twenty percent.

In professional settings, 'remodeling' is often used alongside technical terms like 'zoning,' 'blueprints,' and 'contractual obligations.' In casual settings, it is often associated with 'DIY' (Do It Yourself) culture. Whether you are writing a formal report on urban development or telling a friend about your new kitchen, 'remodeling' provides the necessary weight to describe significant physical changes. It conveys a sense of intentionality and long-term planning that simpler words like 'changing' or 'fixing' lack. By using 'remodeling,' you signal that the changes are structural, purposeful, and likely permanent.

You will encounter the word 'remodeling' in a variety of real-world contexts, ranging from high-stakes business negotiations to casual neighborhood gossip. One of the most common places is in the real estate industry. Real estate agents frequently use 'remodeling' as a selling point. You'll see it in property listings: 'Recently remodeled kitchen with granite countertops.' Here, the word acts as a signal of quality and modernity, suggesting that the buyer won't need to spend extra money on updates. Another major arena for this word is television. Entire networks, like HGTV in the United States, are built around the concept of remodeling. Shows like 'Property Brothers' or 'Fixer Upper' have popularized the term, making it a household word associated with dramatic transformations and emotional reveals.

Real Estate Listings: Used to highlight improvements and justify higher asking prices for homes and apartments.
Home Improvement Media: Found in magazines, blogs, and TV shows that provide inspiration and advice for homeowners.
Construction Industry: Used by contractors, architects, and engineers to define the scope of work in contracts and plans.

In the business world, 'remodeling' is often used when a company is rebranding or expanding. You might hear an announcement like, 'Our flagship store is closed for remodeling.' This informs customers that the physical space is being updated to reflect a new brand identity or to improve the shopping experience. Furthermore, in urban planning and sociology, 'remodeling' can refer to the larger-scale changes in a neighborhood, often linked to gentrification. When city officials talk about 'remodeling the downtown district,' they are referring to a massive effort to change the physical and economic landscape of the city. This usage carries more weight and often involves public debates about heritage and community.

'We are currently remodeling our website to provide a better user experience,' the CEO announced during the press conference.

The local diner is closed for remodeling, but they plan to reopen with a new menu next month.

Finally, you will hear 'remodeling' in everyday conversations among neighbors and friends. It is a common topic of small talk: 'How is the kitchen remodeling going?' or 'We're thinking about remodeling the guest room.' In these contexts, it often serves as a way to share personal news, discuss financial plans, or seek advice on design. It is a word that bridges the gap between professional construction and personal domestic life, making it a versatile and essential part of the modern English vocabulary.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing 'remodeling' with 'renovating' or 'restoring.' While they are related, they have distinct meanings that are important for precise communication. 'Remodeling' specifically implies changing the *form* or *function* of a space. If you move a wall to make two small rooms into one large room, that is remodeling. 'Renovating,' on the other hand, means making something old look new again—like replacing old carpet with new carpet or repainting walls. 'Restoring' means returning something to its *original* condition, often used with historical buildings. Using 'remodeling' when you only mean 'painting' can lead to confusion about the scale and cost of the project.

Remodeling vs. Renovation: Mistake: Saying 'I'm remodeling my room' when you are just buying new furniture. Correct: 'I'm redecorating my room.'
Spelling Errors: Mistake: Forgetting the second 'l' in British English (remodelling) or adding an extra 'l' in American English (remodeling).
Overuse of the Word: Mistake: Using 'remodeling' for very minor changes. If you just changed a lightbulb, it's not remodeling!

Another common error is using 'remodeling' as a verb in the wrong tense or without the necessary auxiliary verbs. Since 'remodeling' is often a gerund, it needs to be part of a continuous tense if used as an action: 'I am remodeling,' not 'I remodeling.' Furthermore, learners sometimes struggle with the prepositions that follow. It is usually 'remodeling of [a place]' or 'remodeling [a place].' Saying 'remodeling to the kitchen' is less common and can sound slightly awkward compared to 'remodeling the kitchen.' Understanding these nuances helps in sounding more like a native speaker and ensures that the listener understands the exact scope of the work being described.

Incorrect: We are remodeling the house by painting the front door. (This is too minor for 'remodeling').

Correct: We are remodeling the house by converting the garage into a studio apartment.

Finally, be careful with the word 'remodel' versus 'remodeling.' 'Remodel' is the verb ('I will remodel the house'), while 'remodeling' is the noun or the continuous action ('The remodeling is finished' or 'I am remodeling'). Mixing these up can disrupt the grammatical flow of your sentence. By paying attention to whether you are naming the project or describing the action, you can avoid these common pitfalls and communicate your ideas more effectively.

To enrich your vocabulary, it is helpful to know words that are similar to 'remodeling' but carry slightly different connotations. Depending on the context, you might choose a word that emphasizes the visual aspect, the structural aspect, or the historical aspect of a project. 'Renovation' is the most common alternative, focusing on refreshing and updating. 'Refurbishment' is often used in commercial contexts, like refurbishing an office or a hotel. 'Overhaul' suggests a very thorough and intensive change, often used for systems or large structures. 'Makeover' is a more casual term, often used for cosmetic changes that have a big visual impact, like a 'room makeover.'

Renovation: Focuses on repairing and improving an existing structure to make it look new again. Example: 'The renovation of the old theater preserved its historic charm.'
Restoration: Focuses on returning a building to its original historical state. Example: 'The restoration of the cathedral took decades of meticulous work.'
Refurbishment: Often used for commercial buildings to describe cleaning, decorating, and re-equipping. Example: 'The hotel is closed for a major refurbishment.'

Other words include 'reconfiguration,' which specifically refers to changing the arrangement of parts within a space, and 'modernization,' which focuses on bringing a space up to current standards of technology and design. 'Conversion' is used when the entire purpose of a building changes, such as a 'warehouse conversion' into residential lofts. Choosing the right word allows you to be more specific about what is happening. If you want to emphasize that the work is being done by the owner, you might use 'DIY project.' If you want to emphasize the high cost and luxury, you might use 'high-end redesign.'

The remodeling was so extensive it was practically a total overhaul of the property.

Instead of a full remodeling, they opted for a simple cosmetic makeover to save money.

By understanding these alternatives, you can tailor your language to the specific situation. In a professional architectural meeting, 'reconfiguration' or 'structural modification' might be more appropriate. In a casual conversation with a neighbor, 'remodeling' or 'fixing up the place' works perfectly. This flexibility in word choice is a hallmark of advanced language proficiency and allows for more nuanced and effective communication in both personal and professional spheres.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

Neutre

Informel

Child friendly

Argot

Le savais-tu ?

The term 'remodeling' in the sense of home improvement became significantly more popular in the mid-20th century as the American middle class grew and home ownership became a central part of the 'American Dream.'

Guide de prononciation

UK /ˌriːˈmɒd.əl.ɪŋ/

US /ˌriˈmɑː.dəl.ɪŋ/

The primary stress is on the second syllable: re-MOD-el-ing.

Rime avec

bottling throttling modeling coddling dawdling waddling straddling paddling

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 're' as 'ruh' instead of 'ree'.
Putting the stress on the first syllable.
Forgetting the 'ing' sound at the end.
Confusing the 'o' sound with an 'u' sound.
In British English, failing to double the 'l'.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

The word is long but its components (re + model + ing) are recognizable.

Écriture 4/5

Spelling can be tricky (one 'l' vs two 'l's) and it requires correct gerund usage.

Expression orale 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once the stress is learned.

Écoute 3/5

Commonly heard in media and daily life, making it easy to recognize.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

house room change build model

Apprends ensuite

renovation restoration architecture contractor blueprint

Avancé

gentrification structural integrity zoning ordinances adaptive reuse retrofitting

Grammaire à connaître

Gerunds as Subjects

Remodeling is a long process.

Present Continuous for Ongoing Actions

We are remodeling the bathroom right now.

Noun-Noun Compounds

The remodeling budget is tight.

Prepositional Phrases after Nouns

The remodeling of the attic was a success.

Verbs followed by Gerunds

They finished remodeling the house last week.

Exemples par niveau

We are remodeling the kitchen.

Estamos remodelando la cocina.

Present continuous tense.

The remodeling is very loud.

La remodelación es muy ruidosa.

Used as a noun subject.

I like the new remodeling.

Me gusta la nueva remodelación.

Used as a noun object.

Is the remodeling finished?

¿Ha terminado la remodelación?

Question form.

They started remodeling today.

Empezaron a remodelar hoy.

Gerund after the verb 'started'.

Remodeling costs a lot of money.

Remodelar cuesta mucho dinero.

Gerund as a subject.

My room needs remodeling.

Mi habitación necesita una remodelación.

Gerund after 'needs'.

She is remodeling her office.

Ella está remodelando su oficina.

Present continuous with a possessive adjective.

The bathroom remodeling will take two weeks.

La remodelación del baño durará dos semanas.

Compound noun used as a subject.

We chose a modern style for the remodeling.

Elegimos un estilo moderno para la remodelación.

Prepositional phrase 'for the remodeling'.

The remodeling made the house look new.

La remodelación hizo que la casa pareciera nueva.

Noun causing a result.

Are you doing the remodeling yourself?

¿Estás haciendo la remodelación tú mismo?

Reflexive pronoun 'yourself'.

The store is closed for remodeling.

La tienda está cerrada por remodelación.

Passive construction with a reason.

I saw the remodeling plans yesterday.

Vi los planos de remodelación ayer.

Noun used as an adjective for 'plans'.

The remodeling project is very big.

El proyecto de remodelación es muy grande.

Adjective 'big' modifying the subject.

We need a permit for the remodeling.

Necesitamos un permiso para la remodelación.

Noun after a preposition.

The remodeling of the attic created two extra bedrooms.

La remodelación del ático creó dos dormitorios adicionales.

Noun phrase with 'of'.

They are remodeling the old warehouse into lofts.

Están remodelando el antiguo almacén en lofts.

Verb 'remodeling' with 'into' for transformation.

The cost of remodeling has increased significantly this year.

El costo de la remodelación ha aumentado significativamente este año.

Present perfect tense.

We are considering remodeling the basement next summer.

Estamos considerando remodelar el sótano el próximo verano.

Gerund after the verb 'considering'.

The remodeling was delayed by a shortage of materials.

La remodelación se retrasó por la escasez de materiales.

Passive voice with an agent of delay.

She hired a professional for the kitchen remodeling.

Ella contrató a un profesional para la remodelación de la cocina.

Specific noun phrase.

The remodeling significantly improved the home's energy efficiency.

La remodelación mejoró significativamente la eficiencia energética del hogar.

Adverb 'significantly' modifying the verb.

During the remodeling, we had to stay in a hotel.

Durante la remodelación, tuvimos que quedarnos en un hotel.

Temporal preposition 'during'.

The extensive remodeling project required approval from the city council.

El extenso proyecto de remodelación requirió la aprobación del ayuntamiento.

Adjective 'extensive' modifying the noun.

Remodeling a historic building requires a delicate balance of old and new.

Remodelar un edificio histórico requiere un delicado equilibrio entre lo antiguo y lo nuevo.

Gerund phrase as a subject.

The company's remodeling of its brand identity was reflected in the store's design.

La remodelación de la identidad de marca de la empresa se reflejó en el diseño de la tienda.

Metaphorical use of 'remodeling'.

Many homeowners view remodeling as a way to hedge against inflation.

Muchos propietarios ven la remodelación como una forma de protegerse contra la inflación.

Used in a comparative or strategic context.

The remodeling phase is often the most stressful part of home ownership.

La fase de remodelación suele ser la parte más estresante de tener una vivienda.

Noun used as a classifier.

After the remodeling, the flow of the house felt much more natural.

Después de la remodelación, el flujo de la casa se sentía mucho más natural.

Noun after a temporal preposition.

The architect suggested remodeling the entryway to allow more light.

El arquitecto sugirió remodelar la entrada para permitir más luz.

Gerund after the verb 'suggested'.

The remodeling budget was carefully managed to avoid overspending.

El presupuesto de remodelación fue gestionado cuidadosamente para evitar gastos excesivos.

Passive voice with an adverbial phrase.

The comprehensive remodeling of the urban core has sparked intense debate about gentrification.

La remodelación integral del núcleo urbano ha provocado un intenso debate sobre la gentrificación.

Complex subject with multiple modifiers.

Remodeling the educational system will require more than just financial investment.

Remodelar el sistema educativo requerirá algo más que una simple inversión financiera.

Abstract, metaphorical use.

The project involved the remodeling of a decommissioned factory into a vibrant community hub.

El proyecto consistió en la remodelación de una fábrica fuera de servicio en un vibrante centro comunitario.

Detailed noun phrase with past participle modifier.

The structural remodeling was necessitated by the discovery of severe foundation issues.

La remodelación estructural fue necesaria por el descubrimiento de graves problemas en los cimientos.

Passive voice with 'necessitated by'.

In many cases, remodeling is a more sustainable option than total demolition and reconstruction.

En muchos casos, la remodelación es una opción más sostenible que la demolición y reconstrucción totales.

Comparative structure with 'than'.

The meticulous remodeling of the palace gardens took several years to complete.

La meticulosa remodelación de los jardines del palacio tardó varios años en completarse.

Adjective 'meticulous' emphasizing detail.

Technological advancements are constantly remodeling the way we interact with our environment.

Los avances tecnológicos están remodelando constantemente la forma en que interactuamos con nuestro entorno.

Present continuous used metaphorically.

The remodeling of the legal framework was essential for the country's economic growth.

La remodelación del marco legal fue esencial para el crecimiento económico del país.

Abstract use in a formal context.

The avant-garde remodeling of the museum's wing challenged traditional notions of space and light.

La remodelación vanguardista del ala del museo desafió las nociones tradicionales de espacio y luz.

High-level vocabulary and abstract concepts.

One might argue that the remodeling of the human psyche is the ultimate goal of modern therapy.

Se podría argumentar que la remodelación de la psique humana es el objetivo final de la terapia moderna.

Hypothetical 'one might argue' structure.

The remodeling of the geopolitical landscape following the summit was both swift and profound.

La remodelación del panorama geopolítico tras la cumbre fue a la vez rápida y profunda.

Correlative conjunctions 'both... and'.

The architect's vision for the remodeling transcended mere functionality, aiming for a poetic resonance.

La visión del arquitecto para la remodelación trascendió la mera funcionalidad, buscando una resonancia poética.

Participial phrase 'aiming for...'.

The sheer scale of the remodeling required a logistical operation of unprecedented complexity.

La magnitud de la remodelación requirió una operación logística de una complejidad sin precedentes.

Noun phrase 'sheer scale' for emphasis.

Remodeling the narrative of one's life is a central theme in many postmodern novels.

Remodelar la narrativa de la propia vida es un tema central en muchas novelas posmodernas.

Gerund phrase as a complex subject.

The remodeling of the tax code was met with significant resistance from various interest groups.

La remodelación del código tributario fue recibida con una resistencia significativa por parte de varios grupos de interés.

Passive voice with 'met with'.

The city's remodeling of its waterfront has successfully integrated public leisure with ecological preservation.

La remodelación del frente marítimo de la ciudad ha integrado con éxito el ocio público con la preservación ecológica.

Present perfect with an integrated object.

Collocations courantes

kitchen remodeling

extensive remodeling

remodeling project

remodeling contractor

remodeling budget

undergo remodeling

plan a remodeling

remodeling costs

bathroom remodeling

commercial remodeling

Phrases Courantes

closed for remodeling

remodeling in progress

complete remodeling

minor remodeling

major remodeling

remodeling ideas

remodeling expert

remodeling plans

remodeling phase

remodeling business

Souvent confondu avec

remodeling vs renovation

Renovation is about making something look new again (cosmetic), while remodeling is about changing the structure or function.

remodeling vs restoration

Restoration is about returning something to its original historical state, while remodeling is about making it modern or different.

remodeling vs modeling

Modeling refers to making a small-scale version of something or working as a fashion model. Remodeling is about changing a building.

Expressions idiomatiques

"remodel your life"

To make significant changes to your lifestyle, habits, or career.

After the divorce, she decided to remodel her life and move to a new city.

informal/metaphorical

"remodel the truth"

To change the facts of a story to make it sound better or different.

The politician was accused of remodeling the truth to suit his agenda.

informal/metaphorical

"a remodeling of the mind"

A fundamental change in how one thinks or perceives the world.

Traveling through Asia led to a complete remodeling of his mind.

formal/metaphorical

"under the knife (remodeling)"

Used metaphorically when a building is undergoing intense construction.

The old theater is finally going under the knife for a much-needed remodeling.

informal

"tear it down to the studs"

To remodel a house by removing everything except the basic wooden frame.

The house was in such bad shape we had to tear it down to the studs for remodeling.

informal/technical

"gut the place"

To remove all the interior contents of a building before remodeling.

They decided to gut the place and start the remodeling from scratch.

informal

"flip a house"

To buy a house, remodel it quickly, and sell it for a profit.

He made a lot of money flipping houses in the early 2000s.

informal

"curb appeal"

The visual attractiveness of a house from the street, often improved by remodeling.

The remodeling project focused on improving the home's curb appeal.

neutral

"sweat equity"

The value added to a property by doing the remodeling work yourself.

We put a lot of sweat equity into remodeling our first home.

informal

"money pit"

A remodeling project that ends up costing much more than expected.

That old Victorian house turned out to be a real money pit.

informal

Facile à confondre

remodeling vs refurbishment

Both involve updating a building.

Refurbishment is more common in British English and often implies cleaning and re-equipping rather than structural changes.

The hotel underwent a refurbishment to update the furniture and carpets.

remodeling vs overhaul

Both imply major changes.

Overhaul is usually used for systems (engines, laws, organizations) rather than just rooms in a house.

The company's management system needs a complete overhaul.

remodeling vs makeover

Both involve changing appearance.

Makeover is casual and usually cosmetic (new paint, new hair, new clothes).

The living room got a quick makeover with some new pillows.

remodeling vs reconstruction

Both involve building.

Reconstruction implies building something again after it was destroyed or damaged.

The reconstruction of the bridge after the earthquake took years.

remodeling vs reconfiguration

Both involve changing layout.

Reconfiguration is a more technical term specifically for the arrangement of parts.

The reconfiguration of the server room improved cooling efficiency.

Structures de phrases

I am remodeling [room].

I am remodeling my bedroom.

The [room] remodeling is [adjective].

The kitchen remodeling is expensive.

We are remodeling the [room] into a [new room].

We are remodeling the basement into a home gym.

The remodeling of the [place] took [time].

The remodeling of the office took six months.

Remodeling [place] requires [requirement].

Remodeling historic buildings requires special permits.

The [adjective] remodeling of [place] reflects [concept].

The extensive remodeling of the city center reflects modern urban values.

During the remodeling, [clause].

During the remodeling, we stayed with my parents.

The cost of remodeling [place] is [amount].

The cost of remodeling the kitchen is over $20,000.

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common in daily life, especially in the US.

Erreurs courantes

I am remodeling my room by buying a new lamp. → I am redecorating my room by buying a new lamp.
Buying a lamp is a minor cosmetic change, not a structural remodeling.
The house is under remodeling. → The house is undergoing remodeling. / The house is being remodeled.
We usually use 'undergoing' or the passive voice for remodeling projects.
We finished to remodel the kitchen. → We finished remodeling the kitchen.
The verb 'finish' is followed by a gerund (-ing), not an infinitive (to...).
I need a remodeling for my house. → I need to remodel my house. / My house needs remodeling.
'Remodeling' is usually used as an uncountable noun or a gerund phrase, not with 'a'.
The remodeling of the car was expensive. → The restoration/overhaul of the car was expensive.
We usually use 'remodeling' for buildings, not vehicles.

Astuces

Use specific rooms

Instead of just saying 'remodeling,' say 'kitchen remodeling' or 'bathroom remodeling' to be more precise.

Gerund vs Verb

Remember that 'remodeling' is the name of the project. 'We are remodeling' is the action. Use them correctly in your sentences.

The 'L' Rule

One 'l' for American English (remodeling), two 'l's for British English (remodelling). Stick to one style in your writing.

Real Estate Tip

When looking at house ads, 'remodeled' usually means the house is in very good, modern condition.

Structural Change

Only use 'remodeling' if you are actually changing the layout or purpose of a space. Otherwise, use 'renovating'.

Life Remodeling

You can use 'remodeling' to talk about big changes in your life, like a new career or a new way of thinking.

Contractor Talk

When talking to a builder, use 'remodeling' to signal that you want to change the floor plan.

Compound Nouns

Use 'remodeling' as an adjective for other nouns, like 'remodeling budget' or 'remodeling plans'.

TV Shows

Watch home improvement shows to hear 'remodeling' used in many different contexts.

Stress the MOD

The most important part of the word is the middle syllable. Say 're-MOD-el-ing' clearly.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'RE-MODEL'. You are taking the old 'MODEL' of your house and doing it 'RE' (again). RE-MODEL-ING is the process of doing it.

Association visuelle

Imagine a house with a giant 'RE' sticker on it, and a worker is moving a wall from one side to the other.

Word Web

Construction Kitchen Bathroom Contractor Blueprint Walls Design Budget

Défi

Try to describe three things you would change in your house using the word 'remodeling' in a full sentence.

Origine du mot

The word 'remodeling' comes from the prefix 're-' meaning 'again' and the verb 'model' meaning 'to fashion or shape.' The verb 'model' itself comes from the French 'modèle' and the Italian 'modello,' which ultimately derive from the Latin 'modellus,' a diminutive of 'modus' meaning 'measure' or 'manner.'

Sens originel : To shape or fashion something again according to a new pattern or measure.

Latinate (via French and Italian).

Contexte culturel

Be aware that remodeling can be a sensitive topic in the context of gentrification, where it may signal the displacement of lower-income residents.

Remodeling is a very common topic of conversation in the US, often associated with the 'DIY' spirit.

HGTV (Home & Garden Television) - A network dedicated to remodeling. 'This Old House' - A famous long-running TV show about remodeling. 'Fixer Upper' - A popular show that brought 'farmhouse chic' remodeling to the mainstream.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Home Improvement

kitchen remodeling
bathroom update
DIY remodeling
hiring a contractor

Real Estate

recently remodeled
remodeling potential
increase resale value
fixer-upper

Business/Retail

closed for remodeling
store remodeling
office reconfiguration
brand remodeling

Urban Planning

neighborhood remodeling
downtown revitalization
structural overhaul
public infrastructure remodeling

Personal Growth

remodeling your life
remodeling habits
mental remodeling
lifestyle change

Amorces de conversation

"Have you ever thought about remodeling any part of your home?"

"What is the most impressive remodeling project you have ever seen?"

"Do you think remodeling a house is better than buying a new one?"

"If you had an unlimited budget, what remodeling would you do to your house?"

"How do you feel about the 'before and after' remodeling shows on TV?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe your dream kitchen remodeling project in detail. What materials and colors would you use?

Write about a time you experienced a major change in your environment. Was it like a remodeling of your life?

Discuss the pros and cons of remodeling an old house versus building a new one from scratch.

Imagine you are remodeling a city. What three things would you change first to make it better for everyone?

Reflect on how your personal 'internal remodeling' (changing your mind or habits) has affected your life.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Remodeling involves changing the structure or purpose of a room, like moving a wall or turning a garage into a bedroom. Renovating means making a space look new again through repairs and cosmetic updates like painting or new flooring. Remodeling is usually a bigger and more expensive project than renovating.

It can be both. As a noun (gerund), it refers to the activity: 'The remodeling is finished.' As a verb in the continuous form, it describes the action: 'We are remodeling our house.' The base verb is 'remodel.'

In British English, it is spelled with two 'l's: 'remodelling.' In American English, it is spelled with one 'l': 'remodeling.' Both are correct, but you should choose one based on your audience.

Yes, typically. Remodeling projects, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, are known to increase a property's market value. However, the cost of the remodeling doesn't always equal the increase in value, so it's important to plan carefully.

Common projects include kitchen remodeling, bathroom updates, basement conversions, attic transformations, and adding new rooms or decks. These projects aim to improve both the function and the look of the home.

Often, yes. If the remodeling involves structural changes, electrical work, or plumbing, most local governments require a building permit. It's important to check with your local city council before starting any major work.

The time varies greatly. A small bathroom remodeling might take two weeks, while a complete kitchen remodeling could take several months. Large-scale house remodeling can take a year or more depending on the complexity.

Yes, this is often called 'DIY remodeling.' Many people do their own remodeling to save money. However, for structural, electrical, or plumbing work, it is often safer and better to hire a professional contractor.

This is when you use the word to describe changing something that isn't a building, like 'remodeling your life' or 'remodeling a business strategy.' It means making fundamental changes to the way something works or is organized.

No. Redecorating is only about aesthetics—changing colors, furniture, or curtains. Remodeling involves physical changes to the structure of the space itself.