accelerate
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //əkˈsɛləreɪt//
KK: /ək'sɛləˌreɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To move or act more quickly than before.
Example
The car began to accelerate as it entered the highway.
Tense Forms
Past: accelerated
Past Participle: accelerated
Conversation
I've been trying to accelerate my studying for the finals.
That's a smart move! How are you planning to do that?
I think I might cut out some distractions to help me accelerate my progress.
Good idea! Staying focused really makes a difference.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
hasten
quicken
speed
Antonyms
decelerate
slow
halt
transitive verb
Definition
To make something go faster or happen sooner than it normally would.
Example
The new engine design will accelerate the car's performance significantly.
Tense Forms
Past: accelerated
Past Participle: accelerated
Conversation
Have you heard about the new program that can accelerate your learning?
Yeah, I read about it! It sounds really interesting.
I think it could really help students finish their courses faster.
Root Explanation
Accelerate → It is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "celerare" (meaning to make swift or quick). The word "accelerate" means to make something move faster or to increase speed.
Memory Tip
Think of 'making something quick' — 'ad-' means to, and 'celerare' means to make swift. This helps you remember that accelerate means to increase speed.
Visually Confused Words
unaccelerated
celebrate
acerate
concelebrate
decelerate
celebrater
celebrated