Synonyms of modify

modify

verb

ˈmä-də-ˌfī 

1

as in to alter

to limit the meaning of (as a noun)

adjectives are words that modify nouns, while adverbs can modify adjectives and verbs

Synonyms & Similar Words

• alter
• qualify
• misrepresent
• distort
• color
• narrow
• misstate
• warp
• pervert
• twist

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• expand
• broaden
• widen

2

as in to change

to make different in some way

he modified the appliance so that it would run more quietly

Synonyms & Similar Words

• alter
• change
• remodel
• transform
• rework
• revise
• recast
• remake
• refashion
• redo
• vary
• revamp
• deform
• mutate
• make over
• metamorphose
• revolutionize
• transmute
• convert
• transfigure
• exchange
• regenerate
• retool
• commute
• rejigger

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• set
• fix
• stabilize
• freeze

Synonym Chooser

How is the word modify different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of modify are alter, change, and vary. While all these words mean "to make or become different," modify suggests a difference that limits, restricts, or adapts to a new purpose.

modified the building for use by the disabled

When can alter be used instead of modify?

The meanings of alter and modify largely overlap; however, alter implies a difference in some particular respect without suggesting loss of identity.

slightly altered the original design

When is it sensible to use change instead of modify?

The words change and modify are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, change implies making either an essential difference often amounting to a loss of original identity or a substitution of one thing for another.

changed the shirt for a larger size

When would vary be a good substitute for modify?

Although the words vary and modify have much in common, vary stresses a breaking away from sameness, duplication, or exact repetition.

vary your daily routine

Examples Sentences

Recent Examples of modify

Characters can mix and match weapons and armour, pick from over 200 class skills and 200 more support skills that modify those classes. —Jason Bennett, arkansasonline.com, 12 Jan. 2025

So his executive order eliminates some CEQA requirements, modifies Coastal Act provisions and ensures property tax assessments are not increased for those who rebuild. —Seema Mehta, Los Angeles Times, 12 Jan. 2025

If a traditional straight-arm plank is too taxing on your wrists or shoulders, modify with a forearm plank by putting your forearms down with your elbows aligned under your shoulders. —Dana Santas, CNN, 12 Jan. 2025

As one of the brain’s primary neurotransmitters, norepinephrine has many functions, and there are several classes of drug that work by modifying the rate at which it is released and reuptaken. —Tom Hawking, Popular Science, 8 Jan. 2025