renovation
ren-uh-VAY-shuhn
/ˌren.əˈveɪ.ʃən/
The process of restoring, updating, or repairing a building or structure to a good state of repair.
Implies updating, refreshing, or improving existing structures rather than tearing down entirely.
The story behind the word. Formed from Latin 're-' (again) and 'novus' (new), 'renovare' literally meant 'to make new again'. In late medieval English, it applied to spiritual renewing before evolving into its primary modern association with architectural repair.
Word relationships
- refurbishment: Refurbishment often focuses on redecorating surface elements, while renovation includes structural upgrades.
- restoration: Restoration aims to return a building to its exact original historical condition, whereas renovation updates it for modern usage.
- demolition: The complete tearing down of a building.
Commonly confused with
- reconstruction: Reconstruction means rebuilding a structure after it has been destroyed, while renovation updates a standing structure.
Word family
- renovate (verb): To restore to a good state of repair.
- renovated (adjective): Restored and modernised.
Collocations
- major renovation
- home renovation
- undergoing renovation
- extensive renovation
Example sentences
- "The historic theater closed for six months to complete a full interior renovation." Property Management
- "Neighborhood revitalization programs encouraged home renovation across the downtown district." Urban Renewal
Memory hook
Re (again) + Nova (new) = Making a building new again. Renovation = Making new again.
When not to use
Do not confuse with new construction from scratch on an empty plot.
Fun facts
- In many ancient cities like Rome, renovation involved stripping marble from pagan temples to construct medieval churches.
Explore more words
modernize, restoration, rejuvenate, restore, reform, revitalization
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