augmentative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "augmentative" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts related to language, grammar, or communication, referring to forms or structures that increase or enhance meaning, often in a way that conveys a greater degree or intensity. Example: "In linguistics, an augmentative form can be used to indicate a larger size or greater intensity, such as 'gigantic' compared to 'big'."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Some patients benefit from therapy to learn strategies for improving swallowing, muscle strength, and intelligibility of speech or to learn augmentative and alternative methods of communication.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Those who are unable to produce speech may also consider an electronic augmentative communication device with voice output so that they can communicate on the phone and talk to unfamiliar people.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Other examples are augmentative communication devices, electronic aids to daily living (EADLs), and reading devices for individuals who are blind.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Kadongo (with the diminutive prefix ka-) is a high-tuned lamellaphone, while gadongo (with the augmentative prefix ga-) is a bass instrument.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), form of communication used in place of or in addition to speech.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) includes the use of communication aids, such as alphabet boards and electronic communication devices that speak, as well as unaided communication methods, such as sign language and gestures.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Latin -ōne suffix has, conversely, acquired augmentative meaning in several languages (Italian cavallone, Spanish caballón 'large horse').

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Bassoon" is merely "basso" (Italian for "bass") with an augmentative suffix.

The New Yorker

This augmentative beauty is what's lost when back matter is banished to a third literary space like the Internet.

The New Yorker

There's overwhelming evidence that professional cycling, and particularly the Tour de France, is a chem lab on wheels, but even here the line between the augmentative and the recuperative use of drugs is deeply unclear.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

A venture into Scots Gaelic, which has only thirteen consonants to spell thirty consonant sounds, gives way to chapters on diacritics; diminutives and augmentatives in Italian; and the gender-neutral Swedish pronoun hen.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing language features or tools designed to aid communication, use "augmentative" to emphasize their role in enhancing or expanding existing abilities. For example, "augmentative communication devices" clearly conveys their purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "augmentative" interchangeably with "alternative." "Augmentative" implies adding to existing capabilities, whereas "alternative" suggests replacing them entirely. Use "augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)" to correctly encompass both scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The word "augmentative" functions primarily as an adjective. It modifies nouns to indicate that something is increasing, enhancing, or adding to something else. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, showing examples where "augmentative" describes communication methods or language features that expand existing abilities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

31%

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

6%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "augmentative" functions as an adjective that describes something that enhances or adds to existing capabilities. Ludwig AI's analysis of various sources, including Encyclopedia Britannica and The New Yorker, confirms that the word is generally used in neutral to formal contexts, such as encyclopedias, news media, and business communication. It is important not to confuse "augmentative" with "alternative", as the former implies an addition or improvement, while the latter suggests a replacement. To improve the writing, consider that "augmentative" is suitable when you want to emphasize that something increases or supplements a particular function. Remember, the word describes the action of increasing and adding to.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increasing

Highlights the action of becoming larger or greater in size, amount, or degree.

enlarging

Emphasizes making something bigger or more extensive.

enhancing

Focuses on the act of improving or making something better, similar to increasing.

intensifying

Stresses the act of making something stronger or more extreme.

reinforcing

Suggests strengthening or supporting something.

additive

Indicates something that is added to enhance or improve.

escalating

Highlights a gradual increase in intensity or extent.

supplemental

Implies providing something extra to enhance or complete.

building up

Focuses on the gradual accumulation or expansion of something.

developing

Suggests growing or evolving into a more advanced state.

FAQs

How is "augmentative" typically used in a sentence?

The word "augmentative" is commonly used to describe something that enhances or adds to something else. For example, "augmentative communication" refers to methods used to supplement speech.

What's a simple way to define "augmentative"?

"Augmentative" means increasing or enhancing. In linguistics, it might describe a suffix that makes a word denote something larger or more intense. Think of it as something that adds to or boosts existing capabilities.

What are some words similar to "augmentative"?

Words like "enhancing", "increasing", and "supplemental" share a similar meaning to "augmentative", as they all imply adding to or improving something. The best choice depends on the context.

How does "augmentative" differ from "alternative"?

"Augmentative" and "alternative" are often paired, especially in the context of communication. "Augmentative" means to add to or enhance existing abilities, whereas "alternative" means to provide a different option or substitute. Both are used to help those with speech impairments, but in different ways.