What's the difference between increase and improve?
I might know when to use them by feeling. But it is not clear at all in my mind. For example, I can say I want to improve my English. But is it also fine if I say ' I want to increase my English skills' ?
What is the exact difference between them? Can any one of you explain the difference in a clear way?

Thanks a lot for your help :)

Hyunwook

Question

What's the difference between increase and improve?
I might know when to use them by feeling. But it is not clear at all in my mind. For example, I can say I want to improve my English. But is it also fine if I say ' I want to increase my English skills' ?
 What is the exact difference between them?  Can any one of you explain the difference in a clear way?

Thanks a lot for your help :)

Hyunwook

Answer

"Increase" relates to quantity.  "Improve" relates to quality.

So you may want to "increase the number of skills" you have and also "improve your skills".

You wouldn't "increase your skills" or "improve the number of your skills".