'Advance' is thus a useful term for long-term improvement in some general property of life.

So a recent slip but after consistent long-term improvements.

These long-term improvements persisted despite the hurricanes in 2004 and 2005.

We need long-term improvement in our economic position.

Millions more are needed for repairs and long-term improvements.

The biggest benefit can be the long-term improvement in your reputation.

The evidence for any long-term improvement in major depression is poor.

"We took immediate steps in the week of Sept. 11 to improve site security and define our priorities for long-term improvement."

But the upgrading of housing is a key to long-term improvement.

Following every summit, the European public is told that measures aimed at the long-term improvement of the jobs situation will be introduced.