Definition of adjustnext

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 Still, Fudd was able to adjust and didn’t pick up a single foul after halftime, and Wings coach Jose Fernandez isn’t concerned about the star guard as Dallas heads into its second preseason game Sunday against the Las Vegas Aces at home. Emily Adams, Hartford Courant, 1 May 2026 But this model is reported to boast the world's first 3-in-1 optical system, and rests on a nifty gimbal stand that can adjust itself or play follow the user. Paul Ridden may 01, New Atlas, 1 May 2026 The steering wheel can monitor and adjust everything from how much brake pressure each tire receives to the differential, which is how much torque distribution goes to the tires. Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 1 May 2026 Secure loose outdoor items and adjust plans as necessary so you're not caught outside. Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 1 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for adjust
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adjust
Verb
  • Your ability to adapt keeps the energy alive.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 3 May 2026
  • In addition, the Academy, which adapts its rules every year, retained the right to request additional information about how AI was used and the extent of human authorship in any project that uses generative AI.
    Will McCurdy, PC Magazine, 3 May 2026
Verb
  • Readers should not rely solely on the content of this article and are encouraged to seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.
    William Jones, USA Today, 6 May 2026
  • Most programmes here include having a 3GL test upon arrival, to show how your body is metabolising its food which then allows the nutritionist to tailor make your meals which include two snacks between breakfast, lunch and dinner.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 May 2026
Verb
  • Those who don’t conform deserve punishment to show the public that unethical behavior is not tolerated.
    The New Yorker, New Yorker, 4 May 2026
  • In the first case against Comey—the one that was tossed last year—DOJ managed to secure the indictment that Trump wanted by stretching the facts to conform to the law.
    Quinta Jurecic, The Atlantic, 3 May 2026
Verb
  • If a drug retails for $100 and a hospital can buy it for $60, then charges the patient or their insurance the full $100 price, the hospital then has $40 to put toward other expenses.
    Dené K. Dryden, Twin Cities, 8 May 2026
  • Neto expanded and was able to put a ball into right field.
    LaMond Pope, Chicago Tribune, 7 May 2026
Verb
  • There is a pool and connecting rooms are available; however, the clientele tends to be slightly older on average, and families with young children might be better suited to another beach resort, where more amenities and kid-friendly programming are available.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Instead, it has been fully integrated into the practice’s comprehensive refractive program, allowing surgeons to match each patient with the procedure best suited to their anatomy and visual goals.
    Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Adjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adjust. Accessed 8 May. 2026.

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