develop

The word “develop” means to grow or change gradually into a more advanced state. In plain terms, to grow, build, or bring something into being step by step; also used for processing camera film.

“Develop” is pronounced dih-VEHL-uhp (/dɪˈvɛl.əp/ in IPA).

Here is “develop” used in a sentence: “The town has developed rapidly over the last decade.”

“Develop” is a verb.

The word “develop” comes from Vulgar Latin. From French développer, ultimately from a Vulgar Latin word meaning "to unwrap" — the opposite of "envelop".

“Develop” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

“Develop” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to grow or change gradually into a more advanced state.

Grow usually means to increase in size, number, or amount. Develop means to change and improve gradually into a more advanced or complete state. A child can grow taller while developing new skills. Growth is often about quantity, whereas development is about progress, refinement, and reaching a fuller form.

Both describe gradual change, but develop suggests progress toward a fuller or more advanced state, often guided by effort or intention. Evolve suggests slower, natural change over time, as in biology, without a set goal. You develop a business plan; a species evolves. Develop implies purpose; evolve implies adaptation.

Develop has several senses. It can mean to grow or advance ('skills develop'), to create or build something ('develop software', 'develop land'), to bring out gradually ('develop an idea'), or, in photography, to treat film so an image appears. The common thread is bringing something into a fuller, more finished form.

Skills can absolutely be developed. To develop a skill means to improve it gradually through practice, learning, and experience. While some people start with natural aptitude, almost any ability, from public speaking to coding, grows stronger the more it is trained, refined, and used over time.