English noun: refinement | |||
1. | refinement (state) a highly developed state of perfection; having a flawless or impeccable quality | ||
Samples | They performed with great polish. I admired the exquisite refinement of his prose. Almost an inspiration which gives to all work that finish which is almost art. | ||
Synonyms | cultivation, culture, finish, polish | ||
Broader (hypernym) | flawlessness, ne plus ultra, perfection | ||
2. | refinement (event) the result of improving something | ||
Samples | He described a refinement of this technique. | ||
Synonyms | elaboration | ||
Broader (hypernym) | advance, betterment, improvement | ||
3. | refinement (process) the process of removing impurities (as from oil or metals or sugar etc.) | ||
Synonyms | purification, refining | ||
Broader (hypernym) | processing | ||
Narrower (hyponym) | rectification | ||
4. | refinement (communication) a subtle difference in meaning or opinion or attitude | ||
Samples | Without understanding the finer nuances you can't enjoy the humor. Don't argue about shades of meaning. | ||
Synonyms | nicety, nuance, shade, subtlety | ||
Broader (hypernym) | import, meaning, significance, signification | ||
5. | refinement (attribute) the quality of excellence in thought and manners and taste | ||
Samples | A man of intellectual refinement. He is remembered for his generosity and civilization. | ||
Synonyms | civilisation, civilization | ||
Broader (hypernym) | excellence | ||