Words / C1

ohv-uh-HORL/ˌəʊvəˈhɔːl/

To overhaul is to take a system apart in order to repair or thoroughly revise it: overhaul the timetable, an engine overhaul (noun). Repair is smaller; reform is policy. Haul is drag — a lookalike. Do not call a new logo an overhaul of teaching.

Meaning

To examine a system thoroughly and make major changes or repairs.

Examples

• “They overhauled the timetable after three clashing labs in one week.”
• “They overhauled the timetable after three labs clashed in a single week.”
• “Repair a hinge; overhaul a whole system. Noun: an overhaul. Reform the statute is law. A rebrand is not an overhaul of the night shift.”

Good to know

Strip down and rebuild / thoroughly revise. Noun: an overhaul. Smaller: repair. Policy cousin: reform. Mix-up: haul. A logo is not enough.

Near in meaning

revise

New