Synonyms for

Refined

Verb / rʌˈfaɪnd / / rɪˈfaɪnd / Another word for refined — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Improved to be more precise or elegant.

Synonyms & similar words

complicate rarify processed svelte polished elegant unrefined polish tasteful elaborate refine graceful finetune urbane neat rectify down polished cultured elegant sophisticated graceful stylish tasteful well-bred urbane civilized courteous dignified gracious noble purified processed subtle delicate fine exquisite

Synonyms by register

Formal

sophisticated cultivated elegant polished

Informal

classy swanky fancy slick

Literary

chaste purified subtle

Antonyms

crude coarse uncultured vulgar rough unpolished gauche

Common collocations

  • refined taste
  • refined sugar
  • refined manners
  • highly refined
  • refined oil
  • refined language
  • refined person

Word family

noun refinement
verb refine
adverb refinedly

Usage note

Often used to describe taste, manners, or products that have been improved or purified. Can sometimes imply a degree of snobbery.

Example sentences

  1. The artist refined her painting by adding more details.
  2. The singer refined her voice by taking vocal lessons.
  3. The writer refined his story by removing unnecessary words.
  4. The dancer refined her ballet moves by practicing every day.
  5. The scientist refined his experiment by adjusting the variables.

Quotes

  • The beautiful cannot be the way to what is useful, or to what is good, or to what is holy. It leads only to itself. - Viktor Shklovsky
  • The more you refine something, the more beautiful it becomes. - Kushandwizdom
  • The refinement of elegance is simplicity. - Tariq Ramadan

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