retouch
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈriːtʌtʃ/
KK: /ˈriːtʌtʃ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To make small changes or improvements to something, often to enhance its appearance or quality.
Example
The artist decided to retouch the painting to make the colors more vibrant.
Tense Forms
Past: retouched
Past Participle: retouched
Conversation
Did you see the photos from our last trip?
Yeah, they were great! But I think some need a little retouch.
I agree, especially the ones from the sunset.
Exactly! A bit of editing would make them look even better.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
revise
edit
improve
Antonyms
damage
ruin
deteriorate
noun
Definition
The action or process of making small changes to improve something, especially in art or photography.
Example
The photographer did a quick retouch to enhance the colors in the image.
Conversation
I just finished my new painting, but I think it needs a little retouch.
Yeah, I can see that! What do you want to change?
I want to add more details to the background for better depth.
transitive verb
Definition
To make changes or improvements to something, often by adding details or correcting flaws.
Example
The artist decided to retouch the painting to enhance its colors and details.
Tense Forms
Past: retouched
Past Participle: retouched
Conversation
I just got some photos back from my trip, but I think I need to retouch a few of them.
Oh really? What do you want to change?
There are some shadows that are too dark, and I want to brighten them up a bit.
Root Explanation
Retouch → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "touch" (from Old French *touchier*, meaning to touch). The word "retouch" means to touch again, often to improve or alter something.
Memory Tip
Think of 'touching again' ('re-') to improve something — that's what retouch means.
Visually Confused Words
touch
retch
reavouch
heretoch