Technology / B2

in-uh-VAYSHUN/ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/

An innovation is a new idea, method, or product that changes how something is done: innovation in technology / education, or a major innovation. Invention is often a specific new object; innovation can be a new way of working. Innovative is the adjective and innovate the verb; the word is common in business English and overused in marketing.

Meaning

A new idea, method, or product.

Examples

• “The phone was a major innovation.”
• “Contactless payment was a significant innovation in retail.”
• “The school is known for innovation in assessment.”

Good to know

an innovation in + field. Adjective: innovative. Broader than a single invention.

Near in meaning

novelty

Topics

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