Okay, let's break down how to use the word "develop" in English. It's a versatile word with a range of meanings, so understanding the context is key. Here's a breakdown of its common usages, with examples:
1. To Grow or Evolve (Most Common)
- Meaning: To gradually become more mature, skilled, or complex. This is probably the most common usage.
- Examples:
- "She needs to develop her skills as a writer." (Become more skilled)
- "The plant is developing rapidly after being watered." (Growing)
- "The child is developing a strong interest in music." (Becoming more interested)
- "The company is developing new products." (Becoming more complex and complete)
2. To Create or Form (Something New)
- Meaning: To bring something into existence, to create or construct.
- Examples:
- "The architect developed a new design for the museum." (Created a design)
- "Researchers are trying to develop a vaccine for the disease." (Creating a vaccine)
- "The programmers developed a new software application." (Created software)
- "Farmers develop crops for specific climates." (Create crops)
3. To Plan or Design (A Strategy, System, etc.)
- Meaning: To create a plan, strategy, or system.
- Examples:
- "The government is working to develop a new economic policy." (Create a policy)
- "We need to develop a strategy for marketing the product." (Create a marketing strategy)
- "They are developing a training program for new employees." (Creating a program)
4. To Mature (Emotionally or Intellectually)
- Meaning: To become more mature or thoughtful. Often used in the context of a person.
- Examples:
- "Through his travels, he developed a greater understanding of different cultures." (Became more understanding)
- "The conversation helped him develop his critical thinking skills." (Became more thoughtful)
5. (More Formal) To Expand or Progress
- Meaning: To grow or extend, often in a business or organizational context.
- Examples:
- "The company is developing its international market share." (Expanding its reach)
- "We need to develop our business relationships.” (Growing and strengthening relationships)
Phrases with "Develop":
- Develop into: To grow into something (e.g., "He is developing into a talented musician.")
- Develop a habit: To form a habit (e.g., "She is developing a habit of reading before bed.")
- Develop a problem: To create or encounter a problem (e.g., "We are developing a problem with the software.")
- Develop with: To work together to create something (e.g., "We need to develop with our partners.")
Tips for Using "Develop" Correctly:
- Consider the context: As mentioned, the meaning of "develop" depends heavily on the surrounding words.
- Synonyms: If you're struggling, consider synonyms like "create," "form," "grow," "evolve," "expand," or "progress."
To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:
- What kind of situation are you thinking about using "develop" in? (e.g., writing a story, describing a process, talking about a person's growth, etc.)
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