Describing an increase in amount

The idea

Use increase with no object for a rise, or with an object when someone causes it. Use by for the amount added and to for the final amount.

Examples

• The price increased by ten euros.
• Rainfall increased during the winter.
• The museum increased its ticket price by two pounds.
• Our garden increased in size last year.
• The chef increased the amount of rice by one cup.
• Attendance increased from thirty to forty people.

Watch out

Do not confuse by with to: a rise by five is a change, not the final total.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the correct form. The temperature increased ___ three degrees. (by / to)

   Show answer or example answer

   by

   by introduces the three-degree change.

2. Choose the correct form. The shop increased the price ___ five euros. (by / at)

   Show answer or example answer

   by

   by gives the amount added to the price.

3. Choose the correct form. The population increased from 100 ___ 150. (to / by)

   Show answer or example answer

   to

   to introduces the final population.

Use it today

Describe a change in a price and say how much was added.