Another Word for Growth: 13 Synonyms with Examples
Growth is an increase in size, number or strength, or the process of developing. Swap it to stress a rise, development or expansion.
As a noun: an increase in size or amount
- increase
- rise
- expansion
- spread
- surge
- boom
- escalation
As a noun: development or maturing
- development
- progress
- maturity
- advancement
- improvement
- flourishing
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- increase
- A neutral rise in number or amount.
- rise
- Similar to increase; common with prices, temperatures and figures.
- expansion
- Growth in size or reach, often of a business or area.
- surge
- A sudden, strong increase.
- boom
- A period of fast economic growth; informal.
- development
- Growth in ability, maturity or complexity rather than size.
Example sentences
- increase: There has been a sharp increase in online shopping.
- rise: The rise in energy prices hit poorer households hardest.
- expansion: The airport's expansion faces strong local opposition.
- surge: There was a surge in demand for bikes during the summer.
- boom: The city enjoyed a building boom in the 1990s.
- development: Play is vital for a child's development.
Opposite of growth
- decline
- decrease
- shrinkage
- fall
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “growth”. Check the meaning before you use one.
noun: growing, maturation, increment
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “growth”?
The most useful alternatives are “increase”, “rise”, “expansion”, “spread”, “surge”. For the main sense (an increase in size or amount), “increase” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “increase” and “rise”?
increase: A neutral rise in number or amount. rise: Similar to increase; common with prices, temperatures and figures.
What is the opposite of “growth”?
Common antonyms are “decline”, “decrease”, “shrinkage”, “fall”.