Synonym Chooser

How does the verb adjust contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of adjust are accommodate, adapt, conform, and reconcile. While all these words mean "to bring one thing into correspondence with another," adjust suggests bringing into a close and exact correspondence or harmony such as exists between parts of a mechanism.

adjusted the budget to allow for inflation

When would accommodate be a good substitute for adjust?

The synonyms accommodate and adjust are sometimes interchangeable, but accommodate may suggest yielding or compromising to effect a correspondence.

accommodated his political beliefs in order to win

In what contexts can adapt take the place of adjust?

In some situations, the words adapt and adjust are roughly equivalent. However, adapt implies a modification according to changing circumstances.

adapted themselves to the warmer climate

When could conform be used to replace adjust?

The words conform and adjust are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, conform applies to bringing into accordance with a pattern, example, or principle.

refused to conform to society's values

When is it sensible to use reconcile instead of adjust?

The meanings of reconcile and adjust largely overlap; however, reconcile implies the demonstration of the underlying compatibility of things that seem to be incompatible.

tried to reconcile what he said with what I knew

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of adjust What To Know The SSA is currently in the process of adjusting benefits but has yet to provide a firm date for full implementation. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 13 Feb. 2025 For every empire that takes hold and then adjusts and fades, someone will be there to pick up the pieces. Evan Clark, WWD, 13 Feb. 2025 The switch comes after President Donald Trump’s executive order calling for the renaming, although other countries including Mexico are not adjusting their geographical labels. Richard Tribou, Orlando Sentinel, 13 Feb. 2025 Schools are adjusting prices to keep up with inflation – and their market share. Francisco Velasquez, Quartz, 13 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for adjust 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adjust
Verb
  • Author Sophie Cousens adapted her novel, which came out at the end of 2020, into the screenplay for the movie.
    Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 14 Feb. 2025
  • Helen Fielding adapts her novel for the screen alongside Dan Mazer and Abi Morgan with maturity.
    Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 14 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • The threats faced by individuals like Michael are tailored and dynamic.
    Chad Angle, Forbes, 18 Feb. 2025
  • All of his clothes were tailored by my tailor, Chris Kerr.
    Mark Peikert, IndieWire, 17 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • Well, the Lions don’t conform to consensus, or what you’re supposed to do when building a team.
    Zack Rosenblatt, The Athletic, 13 Feb. 2025
  • The State Department spokesperson didn't say whether the reform conformed with the law.
    Barak Ravid, Axios, 12 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • In the final, Johns & Waters put an end to the Alshon & Black freight train, but not without some solid pickleball.
    Todd Boss, Forbes, 10 Feb. 2025
  • How much torment are the pit crews willing to put their amateur survivalists through to win a grand prize of $250,000?
    Mark Peikert, IndieWire, 10 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • It's suited to USDA Zones 7 through 9 and is not on Bambi's menu.
    Steve Bender, Southern Living, 10 Feb. 2025
  • Farmhouse serves a phenomenal in-room three-course dinner, which guests can pre-order and have delivered (coursed out) at whatever time suits their schedule.
    Maya Kachroo-Levine, Travel + Leisure, 10 Feb. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near adjust

Cite this Entry

“Adjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adjust. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on adjust

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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