refinement

英[rɪ'faɪnm(ə)nt] 美[rɪ'faɪnmənt]

1. a highly developed state of perfection; having a flawless or impeccable quality;

"they performed with great polish"

"I admired the exquisite refinement of his prose"

"almost an inspiration which gives to all work that finish which is almost art"--Joseph Conrad

2. the result of improving something;

"he described a refinement of this technique"

3. the process of removing impurities (as from oil or metals or sugar etc.)

4. a subtle difference in meaning or opinion or attitude;

"without understanding the finer nuances you can't enjoy the humor"

"don't argue about shades of meaning"

5. the quality of excellence in thought and manners and taste;

"a man of intellectual refinement"

"he is remembered for his generosity and civilization"