When something grows, it gets bigger or increases. Think about a little plant that gets taller and wider over time – it grows. A child also grows, becoming a teenager and then an adult. We can also say that problems grow, meaning they become more serious. So, grow means to become larger or more significant.
The verb "grow" at a B2 CEFR level signifies a broader and more nuanced understanding than simply increasing in size. While it still denotes an augmentation over time, it encompasses both tangible and abstract concepts.
You might use "grow" to describe a child becoming taller, a plant flourishing, or a business expanding its operations. However, it also extends to less concrete ideas, such as "growing in confidence", "a problem growing more complex", or "a feeling of dissatisfaction growing among the employees". This indicates development, progression, or evolution in various contexts, often implying a natural, gradual, or organic process rather than an abrupt change.
At the C1 level, understanding the verb 'grow' involves grasping its nuanced applications beyond simple physical enlargement. It encompasses abstract growth, such as the development of ideas, relationships, or economies, and often implies a process of maturation or advancement. Consider its use in contexts like 'growing a business' or 'growing in confidence,' where the meaning extends beyond literal size to signify progress and evolution. Furthermore, it can be used metaphorically, as in 'growing pains,' referring to difficulties associated with a new stage of development.
§ What does 'grow' mean?
- DEFINITION
- To increase in size, amount, or degree over a period of time. It is used to describe living things becoming larger or situations becoming more significant.
The verb 'grow' is a fundamental word in English, used to describe a process of increase or development. At its core, it means to get bigger, more numerous, or more intense over time. This concept applies to a wide range of things, from the natural world to abstract ideas.
When we talk about living things, 'grow' refers to the process of getting larger and more mature. Think about a tiny seed becoming a big tree, or a baby becoming an adult. This is the most common and easily understood use of the word.
The plant will grow tall if you water it.
Children grow very quickly.
§ When do people use 'grow'?
People use 'grow' in many different situations. It's not just for plants and people! Here are some common contexts:
- Living Organisms: This is perhaps the most intuitive use. Plants grow from seeds, animals grow from babies, and humans grow from infants into adults. This implies a natural, biological process of development.
- Non-living Things (Figurative Use): We can also use 'grow' to describe things that aren't alive but still increase in size or quantity. For example, a business can 'grow' its profits, or a city can 'grow' its population.
- Abstractions and Feelings: 'Grow' can also refer to the development or intensification of abstract concepts, emotions, or relationships. Your knowledge can 'grow', your love for someone can 'grow', or a problem can 'grow' bigger.
- Skills and Abilities: When you learn something new and become better at it, you 'grow' your skills. For instance, a student might 'grow' in confidence as they learn English.
The company's profits grew last year.
My English vocabulary will grow if I study every day.
§ Understanding the nuances of 'grow'
While the core meaning remains consistent, the context often helps clarify the specific type of increase. It's a versatile verb that indicates a change over time, usually towards something larger, more developed, or more significant.
The past tense of 'grow' is 'grew', and the past participle is 'grown'. It's an irregular verb, so these forms are important to learn.
§ Synonyms and related words
To further understand 'grow', it can be helpful to look at some similar words:
- Increase: This is a very general synonym for 'grow', meaning to become larger in amount or number.
- Develop: This implies a more complex process of improvement or advancement, often with stages.
- Expand: To become larger in size or scope.
- Enlarge: To make or become bigger.
By understanding these different applications and nuances, you can effectively use the word 'grow' to describe various forms of increase and development in your English conversations and writing.
How Formal Is It?
"The cells proliferated rapidly in the petri dish."
"The plants grow quickly in warm weather."
"My little brother really shot up over the summer."
"The puppy will get bigger and bigger."
"That band really blew up after their song went viral."
Nível de dificuldade
The word is common and the definition is straightforward, making it relatively easy to read for an A1 learner.
The spelling is regular and short, making it easy to write. The concept is also simple enough for A1 writing tasks.
The pronunciation is straightforward with a common vowel sound and consonant blend, making it easy to speak.
The word is very common and the pronunciation is clear, making it easy to recognize in spoken language.
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Exemplos por nível
Plants grow quickly in the sun.
Plants get bigger fast with sunshine.
Simple present tense, describing a general truth.
My little brother will grow tall.
My small brother will get very big.
Future tense with 'will', indicating a prediction.
The baby is growing fast.
The baby is getting bigger quickly.
Present continuous tense, showing an ongoing action.
He wants to grow vegetables in his garden.
He wants to plant and make vegetables bigger in his garden.
Infinitive 'to grow' after 'wants to', expressing a desire.
My hair grows very long.
My hair gets very long.
Simple present tense, describing a characteristic.
The town is growing bigger every year.
The town gets larger each year.
Present continuous tense, showing a continuous change.
Did you grow this flower?
Did you make this flower get bigger?
Simple past tense for a question about a past action.
Children grow every day.
Kids get bigger each day.
Simple present tense, describing a daily occurrence.
Família de palavras
Substantivos
Verbos
Adjetivos
Teste-se 66 perguntas
My little brother wants to ___ up and be a doctor.
'Grow up' is a common phrase meaning to become an adult.
The plants in the garden ___ very quickly in the summer.
Plants 'grow' to become larger.
Our business started small, but it began to ___ last year.
Businesses 'grow' when they increase in size or success.
A small seed can grow into a big tree.
Seeds develop and become larger plants, so they grow into trees.
If you are very hungry, you will grow taller immediately.
Growing taller happens over time, not instantly when you are hungry.
My skills in English will grow if I practice every day.
Practicing helps your skills increase or improve, which means they grow.
Describe how a small seed can 'grow' into a big plant. Use simple sentences.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
First, a small seed needs water and sun. Then, it will grow into a small plant. After some time, the plant will grow bigger and bigger.
Imagine you have a small puppy. How will it 'grow' over time? Write 2-3 sentences.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
My puppy is small now. It eats a lot of food and likes to play. Soon, it will grow into a big dog.
Think about something you want to 'grow' better at, like a skill or a hobby. Write one sentence about it.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I want to practice my English so I can grow better at speaking it.
What did Tom do to help his apple tree grow?
Read this passage:
Tom planted a small apple tree in his garden. He gave it water every day and made sure it got enough sunlight. After a few months, the tree started to grow taller and its leaves became greener. Soon, he hoped it would grow big enough to give him apples.
What did Tom do to help his apple tree grow?
The passage says, 'He gave it water every day and made sure it got enough sunlight.'
The passage says, 'He gave it water every day and made sure it got enough sunlight.'
According to the passage, what happens to children's clothes as they grow?
Read this passage:
When children are young, they grow very quickly. Their clothes often become too small because their bodies are getting bigger. They also learn new things every day, and their minds grow too.
According to the passage, what happens to children's clothes as they grow?
The passage states, 'Their clothes often become too small because their bodies are getting bigger.'
The passage states, 'Their clothes often become too small because their bodies are getting bigger.'
What is happening to the town described in the passage?
Read this passage:
Our town is small, but it is starting to grow. More and more people are moving here, and new shops and houses are being built. Everyone hopes the town will grow into a nice place to live.
What is happening to the town described in the passage?
The passage says, 'More and more people are moving here, and new shops and houses are being built,' indicating the town is growing.
The passage says, 'More and more people are moving here, and new shops and houses are being built,' indicating the town is growing.
The company's profits continued to ___ steadily over the past year.
'Grow' means to increase in size or amount, which fits the context of profits increasing.
After moving to the countryside, she started to ___ her own vegetables in the garden.
To 'grow' vegetables means to cultivate them from seeds or young plants. While 'plant' and 'cultivate' are related, 'grow' is the most direct and common verb for this action.
The city is expected to ___ significantly in population over the next decade.
'Grow' is commonly used to describe an increase in population size. While 'develop' and 'expand' are also related to growth, 'grow' specifically refers to the increase in numbers.
A small seed can grow into a large tree.
Seeds develop and increase in size to become trees, which aligns with the definition of 'grow'.
If you don't water a plant, it will grow quickly.
Plants need water to grow; lack of water will hinder or stop their growth.
The economy is said to grow when there is a decrease in production and employment.
Economic growth implies an increase in production, employment, and overall prosperity, not a decrease.
Imagine you have a small plant. Describe how you would help it grow over the next few weeks. What steps would you take to ensure it thrives?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
To help my small plant grow, I would make sure to water it regularly, but not too much, as overwatering can be harmful. I'd place it in a spot where it gets plenty of natural sunlight each day, perhaps near a window. I would also check the soil to ensure it's healthy and has enough nutrients. If it seems to outgrow its current pot, I would carefully transplant it into a larger one. My goal would be to observe it closely for any signs of distress and provide consistent care to help it thrive and grow big and strong.
Think about a skill you've learned or are learning. How do you plan to 'grow' in that skill? What challenges do you anticipate, and how will you overcome them?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I'm currently learning to play the guitar, and my plan to 'grow' in this skill involves consistent practice. I aim to dedicate at least 30 minutes every day to practicing chords and scales. I anticipate challenges like finger soreness and moments of frustration when a new technique feels difficult. To overcome these, I'll break down complex songs into smaller parts, use online tutorials, and remind myself that progress takes patience. I believe that with perseverance, I will see significant improvement and my skills will grow.
Describe a time when you experienced a significant 'growth' in your understanding or perspective on a particular topic or situation. What caused this change?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I experienced a significant 'growth' in my understanding of environmental issues after volunteering at a local nature reserve last summer. Before that, I knew about climate change, but it felt abstract. Working directly with the land, seeing the effects of pollution firsthand, and learning from the park rangers gave me a much deeper and more personal perspective. This hands-on experience and the conversations I had with knowledgeable people caused a profound change in my awareness and made me realize the urgency of environmental protection. My perspective truly grew.
According to the passage, what is one potential challenge associated with a city's population growth?
Read this passage:
Over the past decade, many cities have seen their populations grow steadily. This growth often brings both opportunities and challenges. While a larger population can lead to economic development and cultural diversity, it also places increased pressure on resources like housing, transportation, and public services. Urban planners work to manage this growth effectively to ensure a good quality of life for all residents.
According to the passage, what is one potential challenge associated with a city's population growth?
The passage states that 'it also places increased pressure on resources like housing, transportation, and public services' as a challenge.
The passage states that 'it also places increased pressure on resources like housing, transportation, and public services' as a challenge.
What is highlighted as essential for children's proper growth?
Read this passage:
A healthy diet is crucial for children to grow properly. Essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals provide the building blocks their bodies need. Without a balanced diet, children might experience stunted growth or developmental delays. Encouraging healthy eating habits from a young age can help ensure they grow up strong and healthy.
What is highlighted as essential for children's proper growth?
The passage clearly states, 'A healthy diet is crucial for children to grow properly.'
The passage clearly states, 'A healthy diet is crucial for children to grow properly.'
What is causing the market for sustainable products to grow?
Read this passage:
The market for sustainable products continues to grow as consumers become more environmentally conscious. This trend is driving innovation in various industries, from fashion to food. Companies are responding by developing eco-friendly alternatives and promoting ethical sourcing. As awareness grows, this market is expected to expand even further in the coming years.
What is causing the market for sustainable products to grow?
The passage states, 'The market for sustainable products continues to grow as consumers become more environmentally conscious.'
The passage states, 'The market for sustainable products continues to grow as consumers become more environmentally conscious.'
This sentence describes how fast children develop.
This sentence indicates an increase in the company's size or success.
This sentence refers to allowing hair to increase in length.
Listen for how the company's financial performance is described.
Pay attention to the speed at which children are described as growing.
Focus on what has increased in the context of scientific concepts.
Read this aloud:
Can you explain how a small business might grow into a large corporation?
Focus: grow, corporation
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Read this aloud:
Describe a personal skill or talent you have seen grow over time.
Focus: skill, grow, talent
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Read this aloud:
How do environmental changes impact the way plants grow?
Focus: environmental, impact, grow
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The company's profits are expected to ___ significantly in the next quarter due to innovative marketing strategies.
The context of 'innovative marketing strategies' suggests a positive trend, making 'grow' the most fitting option for increasing profits.
Despite initial setbacks, her confidence continued to ___ as she mastered new skills and received positive feedback.
The phrase 'mastered new skills and received positive feedback' indicates an increase in confidence, so 'grow' is the appropriate verb.
The complex legal battle is likely to ___ into a protracted affair, demanding substantial resources from both parties.
A 'protracted affair' implies an expansion or increase in duration and complexity, making 'grow' the correct choice.
As the demand for sustainable energy solutions continues to ___, new technologies are emerging at a rapid pace.
The development of 'new technologies at a rapid pace' suggests an increasing demand, so 'grow' fits the context.
His influence within the organization began to ___ exponentially after he successfully spearheaded several key projects.
Successfully leading 'several key projects' would lead to an increase in influence, thus 'grow' is the most suitable word.
The intricate web of corruption was allowed to ___ unchecked, eventually compromising the entire governmental system.
When something is 'allowed to unchecked,' it typically expands or increases, making 'grow' the logical choice for a 'web of corruption' that 'compromised the entire governmental system.'
The company's innovative marketing strategies allowed its market share to ___ exponentially.
'Burgeon' means to begin to grow or increase rapidly, which fits the context of exponential growth. 'Dwindle' means to diminish, 'stagnate' means to stop developing, and 'recede' means to go or move back or further away.
Despite the economic downturn, the tech startup managed to ___ its user base by 300% in a single year, defying expectations.
'Amplify' means to increase the volume of (sound), especially using an amplifier, or to enlarge upon or add details to (a story or statement). In this context, it refers to significantly increasing the user base. 'Curtail' means to reduce in extent or quantity; impose a restriction on. 'Retard' means to delay or hold back in terms of progress or development. 'Attenuate' means to reduce the force, effect, or value of.
The constant influx of new talent helped the organization's creative output to ___ to unprecedented levels.
'Blossom' means to mature or develop in a promising or healthy way, which perfectly describes the positive impact of new talent on creative output. 'Wane' means to decrease in vigor, power, or extent; become weaker. 'Deteriorate' means to become progressively worse. 'Stifle' means to prevent or constrain (an activity or idea).
A business experiencing rapid 'growth' can be described as 'floundering.'
To 'flounder' means to struggle helplessly or clumsily, which is the opposite of rapid growth.
If a plant 'grows' profusely, it means it is thriving and developing abundantly.
'Profusely' means to a great extent; in large amounts. Therefore, a plant growing profusely is indeed thriving and developing abundantly.
The phrase 'to grow complacent' implies a positive development towards greater ambition and effort.
To 'grow complacent' means to become smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements. This implies a negative development where ambition and effort decrease, not increase.
Focus on the nuanced meaning of 'grow' in a business context, implying development and expansion.
Consider 'grow' in an economic sense, indicating an increase in size or prosperity.
Think about 'grow' in the context of influence and reputation, suggesting an increase in reach or impact.
Read this aloud:
The perennial challenge for many developing nations is how to foster sustainable economic growth without exacerbating social inequalities.
Focus: sustainable economic growth
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Read this aloud:
Amidst the burgeoning technological advancements, it's crucial to cultivate critical thinking skills to grow intellectually and adapt to new paradigms.
Focus: cultivate critical thinking skills
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Read this aloud:
To truly grow as an individual, one must embrace challenges, learn from failures, and continuously seek opportunities for self-improvement and personal development.
Focus: embrace challenges, learn from failures
Você disse:
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This sentence discusses economic growth, a common usage of 'grow' at an advanced level.
This sentence illustrates 'grow' in the context of business metrics and market dynamics.
This sentence uses 'grow' to describe the expansion of an abstract concept like reputation, indicating C1 proficiency.
The burgeoning tech industry continues to ___ exponentially, drawing in vast capital and talent.
The context implies expansion and increase, making 'grow' the most suitable verb. 'Exponentially' reinforces this idea of significant increase.
Despite the economic downturn, the demand for sustainable energy solutions continues to ___, signaling a shift in global priorities.
The phrase 'continues to' indicates an ongoing increase, which aligns with 'grow'. The sentence describes a positive trend in demand.
The public's disillusionment with traditional politics has begun to ___, fostering an environment ripe for radical change.
The sentence suggests an increase in disillusionment leading to radical change, making 'grow' the appropriate verb. The outcome implies an expanding sentiment.
As global interconnectedness continues to ___, the complexities of international relations become increasingly intricate.
The increasing intricacy of international relations implies that global interconnectedness is expanding, making 'grow' the correct choice.
The nascent startup, initially struggling for funding, has started to ___ into a formidable market contender.
The phrase 'started to ___ into a formidable market contender' indicates development and expansion, making 'grow' the most fitting word.
With each passing fiscal quarter, the company's profits seem to ___, defying conventional economic forecasts.
The sentence states that profits are 'defying conventional economic forecasts,' implying an unexpected increase. 'Grow' accurately conveys this upward trend.
/ 66 correct
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Exemplo
Flowers grow in the garden during the spring.
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flora
B2Flora refers to the collective plant life found in a specific region, habitat, or geological period. It is commonly used in scientific or environmental contexts to describe the variety and distribution of native vegetation.
species
B2A species is a group of living organisms consisting of similar individuals capable of exchanging genes or interbreeding. It is the basic unit of biological classification and taxonomic rank in the hierarchy of living things.
blossom
C1Quando algo está no seu melhor momento, como as flores. É usado também para dizer que algo está prosperando muito.
fauna
B2A fauna é o conjunto de todas as espécies de animais que vivem em uma região ou período específico. É um termo coletivo para descrever a vida animal de um ecossistema.
wildlife
B2Vida selvagem refere-se a todos os animais e plantas que vivem livremente na natureza. São seres que habitam seus ambientes naturais sem interferência humana.
migrate
B2To move from one region or habitat to another, typically according to the seasons or in search of better living conditions. It is frequently used to describe animal behavior, human movement for work, or the transfer of digital data between systems.
adautoous
C1Describing something that grows, arises, or is produced spontaneously and independently of external influence. In technical or literary contexts, it refers to organisms or phenomena that appear to be self-generated or self-cultivated.
arboriculture
C1Arboriculture is the practice and study of the cultivation, management, and care of individual trees, shrubs, and other perennial woody plants. It focuses on the health and safety of specific plants within a landscape, often in urban or suburban settings, rather than on the management of entire forests.
arboretum
C1Um jardim botânico focado no cultivo e exposição de diversas espécies de árvores e arbustos. Serve como uma coleção viva para fins científicos e educacionais.
birch
B2A birch is a thin-leaved deciduous hardwood tree of the genus Betula, known for its distinctive peeling bark and slender branches. In historical and academic contexts, it can also refer to a bundle of twigs used for corporal punishment.
