Ameliorate refers to improvements that make a considerable and positive difference. Charities work to ameliorate the living standards in impoverished areas.
Pro Tip 2/3
Not a Quick Fix
Ameliorate suggests a process, not an immediate solution to a problem. Educational reforms may slowly ameliorate literacy rates.
Pro Tip 3/3
Positive Action
Use ameliorate when actions are taken to improve adverse situations. New laws were passed to ameliorate unemployment rates.