reform
rih-FORM
/rɪˈfɔːm/
To make structural changes in an institution, law, or system in order to improve it; or the improvement resulting from such changes.
Focuses on constructive institutional improvement from within existing frameworks rather than total destruction or revolution.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin reformare, meaning 'to restore to a better form'. In the 16th century, the word became permanently linked to the Protestant Reformation, describing widespread spiritual and organizational structural renewal.
Word relationships
- amend: Amend usually refers to making specific written edits to a law or document, while reform implies broader systemic improvement.
- preserve: Preserve means keeping an existing institution unchanged, whereas reform means altering it for improvement.
Commonly confused with
- revolution: Reform modifies and improves existing institutional structures, whereas revolution overthrows and replaces them completely.
Word family
- reformer (noun): A person who advocates for or brings about social or political reform
- reformation (noun): The process of reforming an institution or practice
Collocations
- institutional reform
- legal reform
- enact reform
- push for reform
Idioms & expressions
- reform movement
Example sentences
- "The Parliamentary Reform Act of 1832 dramatically expanded voting rights across industrial cities in Great Britain." Political history essay on voting rights
- "Civil rights advocates continue to demand legislative measures to reform the police oversight system." Public policy recommendation document
Memory hook
RE-FORM means to FORM something again into a better shape. Reshaping for improvement.
When not to use
Do not use for minor physical repairs to household objects or routine maintenance.
Fun facts
- The Great Reform Act of 1832 abolished 'rotten boroughs'—parliamentary constituencies with virtually no voters that were controlled by wealthy aristocrats.
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.