Definition

1. Verb (transitive):

   • To make something modern or up-to-date; to adapt something to present-day needs, styles, or technologies.
   • To introduce modern methods, ideas, or equipment into an organization, system, or place.

2. Verb (intransitive):

   • To become modern; to adopt modern ways, technologies, or ideas.

Usage

• Transitive verb: The action is done to an object (e.g., modernize ).
• Intransitive verb: The action describes a change of state for the subject itself (e.g., a country modernizes).

Examples

• Transitive use:
  • The company decided to modernize its factory with new robotic equipment.
  • The government plans to modernize the public transportation system.
• Intransitive use:
  • As the economy grows, the nation continues to modernize.
  • Many traditional industries must modernize to survive.

Advanced Usage

• "to modernize something along the lines of...": To update something following a particular model or principle.
  • They aim to modernize the curriculum along the lines of international standards.
• In economic and sociological contexts, "modernize" often implies a broad transformation involving industrialization, technological adoption, and social change.

Variants and Related Words

• Modernization (n): The process of making something modern.
  • The rapid modernization of the city's infrastructure is impressive.
• Modernizer (n): A person who advocates for or brings about modernization.
  • He was seen as a reformer and a modernizer within the party.

Synonyms

• Update: To make something more current, often with minor changes.
• Overhaul: To examine thoroughly and make significant repairs or changes (can be a synonym in contexts of comprehensive reform).
• Renovate: To restore to a good state of repair, often implying modernization.
• Revamp: To give new and improved form, structure, or appearance.

Antonyms

• Antiquate: To make old or obsolete.
• Preserve: To maintain in its original or existing state.

Related Phrases

• Modernize one's approach: To update the way one thinks about or does something.
  • The school needs to modernize its approach to teaching languages.
• Pressure to modernize: The external or internal force compelling an update.
  • The industry is under constant pressure to modernize from global competitors.

Verb

1. become technologically advanced
   • Many countries in Asia are now developing at a very fast pace
   • Viet Nam is modernizing rapidly
2. make repairs, renovations, revisions or adjustments to
   • You should overhaul your car engine
   • overhaul the health care system