1
Increase a resource
Add to the amount or supply already available.
Example
The grant augmented the library's conservation budget.
augment
/ɔːɡˈment/ · awg-MENTverb
To increase something in size, amount, strength, or value.
Use augment when something already present is enlarged or strengthened by an addition.
What augment Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Strengthen a capacity
Improve what a person, system, or institution can do.
Example
Sensors augment the rover's ability to navigate in darkness.
3
Enhance an effect
Make an existing impression, sound, or result stronger.
Example
Mirrors augment the natural light entering the gallery.
Use augment Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The grant augmented the library's conservation budget.
Additional interviews augmented the evidence gathered from official records.
The device augments rather than replaces human judgement.
Precision Matters
Augment overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
augment
vs.Often implies adding something to what already exists.
increase
Broadly means become or make greater.
augment
vs.Makes the whole greater in amount or strength.
supplement
Adds something that completes or improves it.
augment
vs.Can increase resources, capacities, or effects.
amplify
Especially increases intensity, volume, or emphasis.
augment
vs.Adds to an existing amount.
deplete
Uses up or diminishes it—the contrast.
Test augment in Context
The new measurements increase and strengthen the existing evidence.
1
Rather than replace the field observations, the satellite measurements ___ them by adding information from areas the researchers could not reach on foot.