What does revise mean?
To revise means to look at something again and make changes to it, usually because its wording is unclear, its details are inaccurate, or new information has altered how it should be understood. The verb is widely used for editing reports, essays, contracts, proposals, and other documents, as in revising a draft. It can also describe updating an estimate, plan, or opinion. In academic contexts, revising may mean reviewing and rewriting material in preparation for an examination. The word carries a practical, constructive connotation: revision suggests improvement through reconsideration rather than a complete rejection of the original work. Its meaning is shared broadly across British and American English, although the associated noun is revision and the person who makes changes may be called a reviser.
verbTo change or correct something, especially by reconsidering its wording, content, or details. It can also mean to update an earlier decision or estimate in the light of new information.
- To alter, correct, or improve wording, details, or content.
- To reconsider and update a plan, decision, estimate, or opinion.
- In academic contexts, to study or rewrite material in preparation for examination.
"The committee revised its proposal after receiving feedback from local residents."
"She revised the report to clarify the findings and correct several errors."
"Forecasters revised their estimates as the storm approached."
"Students have three weeks to revise for their examinations."
To revise is to look again with better judgment: the word literally means to see something a second time.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does revise come from?
The word comes through French from Latin revisere, a form of the verb revertere, meaning to turn back. Its elements combine the prefix re-, meaning again, with visere or videre, meaning to see. The underlying idea is therefore to see or examine something again. English borrowed the word in the 16th century, initially in senses connected with correcting or going over a text.
Related word forms
How revise is actually used
The word is neutral in register and is common in formal and informal contexts. In British and American English, it is especially associated with editing written work and updating plans or estimates.
Easily confused with revise
To revise something is to change or correct it, whereas to revive something is to restore it to life, activity, or effectiveness.
To revise is to make changes to wording, details, or a plan, while to review is primarily to examine or assess something.