modify
Alter without replacing
To modify is to change something, usually in a limited or partial way rather than transforming it entirely.
You modify a recipe by adjusting ingredients, modify behavior through feedback, or modify a plan when circumstances shift.
In grammar, a modifier is a word or phrase that describes or limits another: in the red door, red modifies door.
Modified often suggests adaptation for specific needs: a modified version of the software.
To make different
- reviseAlter to improve
- editModify written material
- amendModify or correct
- reworkModify something already made
vary · shift · reshape · transform · morph · mutate · evolve · rearrange
Complete systematic repair
- restructureRearrange fundamental organization
- reorganizeArrange again differently
- revampRestructure extensively
- renovateRestore to good condition
remake · modernize · transform · reshape · rebuild · reconstitute · reengineer · reinvent
Adjust for accuracy
- fine-tuneAdjust for optimal performance
- regulateControl by rules
- tuneMusical sequence of notes
- tweakMinor adjustment
recalibrate · dial-in · set · reset · realign · balance · correct · compensate
Clothing alteration professional
- personalizeAdapt for one user
- individualizeMake distinct for someone
- configureArrange for operation
- adaptModify for new conditions
bespoke · custom-fit · specialize · design · fitted · made-to-order · monogram · engrave
Raise to higher standard
- patchMaterial covering damage
- refreshRestore energy or newness
- reviseAlter to improve
- renewMake valid again
version · release · iterate · debug · fix · maintain · service · hotfix
Smooth by rubbing
sharpen · optimize · streamline · elevate · enrich · ameliorate · upgrade · better
Change completely in form
- translateExpress in another language
- transmuteChange in fundamental nature
- transfigureChange appearance dramatically
- transposeReverse order of elements
recode · reformat · encode · decode · transliterate · transcribe · switch · changeover
Word or phrase limiting meaning
- adjectiveNoun-describing word type
- adverbVerb or adjective modifier
- clauseProvision in agreement
- descriptorWord that describes something
intensifier · limiter · attributive · predicate · participle · restrictive · nonrestrictive · appositive
change
To make different
rework · vary · shift · reshape · transform · morph · mutate · evolve · rearrange · transpose
overhaul
Complete systematic repair
- restructureRearrange fundamental organization
- reorganizeArrange again differently
- revampRestructure extensively
renovate · remake · modernize · transform · reshape · rebuild · reconstitute · reengineer · reinvent · reboot
calibrate
Adjust for accuracy
tweak · recalibrate · dial-in · set · reset · realign · balance · correct · compensate · attune
tailor
Clothing alteration professional
- personalizeAdapt for one user
- individualizeMake distinct for someone
- configureArrange for operation
adapt · bespoke · custom-fit · specialize · design · fitted · made-to-order · monogram · engrave · embroider
upgrade
Raise to higher standard
renew · version · release · iterate · debug · fix · maintain · service · hotfix · rollout
polish
Smooth by rubbing
perfect · sharpen · optimize · streamline · elevate · enrich · ameliorate · upgrade · better · augment
transform
Change completely in form
- translateExpress in another language
- transmuteChange in fundamental nature
- transfigureChange appearance dramatically
transpose · recode · reformat · encode · decode · transliterate · transcribe · switch · changeover · reinterpret
qualifier
Word or phrase limiting meaning
descriptor · intensifier · limiter · attributive · predicate · participle · restrictive · nonrestrictive · appositive · determiner
modifypreserve
Protect from loss
maintain · keep · conserve · retain · leave alone
- Genetically modified foodProduce with altered DNA
- dangling modifierPhrase with unclear referent
- genetically modified cropsPlants with altered DNA
- genetically modifiedAltered at DNA level
- genetic modificationAltering DNA deliberately
- lifestyle modificationsAdjustments to daily habits
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