change for the better
Change for the better (noun) means an alteration that leaves a situation, person or thing improved rather than worse. Example: “Moving out of the city was a real change for the better.”
How to use change for the better
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething changed and the result is better than before.
Neutral; equally at home in speech and formal writing.
The preposition is fixed at for and better takes the, never a. Say a change for the better, not a change for better.
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Moving out of the city was a real _____.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for change for the better
See all rhymes for change for the better →Frequently asked questions
Is it change for the better or change to the better?
Change for the better is the fixed form; change to the better is not idiomatic English. The same pattern gives change for the worse and turn for the worse.
What is the difference between a change for the better and an improvement?
An improvement simply states that something got better. A change for the better emphasises that something was altered and the alteration turned out well — it carries the sense of a shift, and often of relief that it went the right way.
Can you say changed for the better about a person?
Yes, and it is one of the most common uses. Saying someone has changed for the better praises a shift in their character or behaviour, usually after a difficult period.
What is the meaning of change for the better?
"change for the better" (noun) means an alteration that leaves a situation, person or thing improved rather than worse.