modify

verb

ˈmä-də-ˌfī How to pronounce modify (audio)
Definition of modifynext
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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

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 modify SpaceX is also modifying a Starship V3 to dock with NASA's Orion spacecraft as a part of the Artemis III mission to Earth orbit next year. — Josh Dinner, Space.com, 21 Aug. 2026 The contract was modified again in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021, increasing its value. — Carol Marbin Miller, Miami Herald, 21 Aug. 2026 So the biggest question for the Rams going into Saturday’s preseason game against the New Orleans Saints is whether coach Sean McVay will modify the plan for the two players competing to back up Matthew Stafford. — Gary Klein, Los Angeles Times, 21 Aug. 2026 Counter identified the auditorium’s main air-supply fan as original equipment dating to 1937, and described mechanical and electrical systems that have been added onto and modified repeatedly over the decades. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 20 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for modify
Recent Examples of Synonyms for modify
  1. alter
  2. change
  3. qualify
  4. remodel
  5. transform
Verb
  • Johanna Mayer said admissions ultimately came in below 20,000, but stressed that the result had not altered the company’s commitment to Pálmason.
    — Davide Abbatescianni, Variety, 28 Aug. 2026
  • The Norwegian Constitution was altered in 1990 to allow future firstborns — regardless of gender — to take precedence in the line of succession.
    — Jan M. Olsen, Los Angeles Times, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of alter
Verb
  • Dodgers’ brass has refrained from dipping into its robust pool of outfield prospects, but the open roster spot could change their thinking.
    — Katie Woo, New York Times, 31 Aug. 2026
  • Unlocking the true nature of dark energy and dark matter could help astronomers understand what the universe is made of, how its expansion has changed over time, and if there is more to understanding gravity than meets the eye.
    — Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 30 Aug. 2026
Definition of change
Verb
  • However, many trade associations include sole proprietors who don't qualify for an AHP, and some organizations have members in a range of industries.
    — Sarah Agostino, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Minneola Mayor Pam Serviss confirmed Yeager did not present the paperwork necessary to qualify for the election and will not be eligible to keep his seat this election cycle.
    — James Wilkins, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 Aug. 2026
Definition of qualify
Verb
  • The original structure was altered in the late 17th century, expanded in the 18th century, and remodeled again during the 19th and 20th centuries.
    — Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 26 Aug. 2026
  • Over 130 stores are being remodeled But matching Walmart's scale is not the goal, said Jacob Aiken-Phillips, consumer research director at Melius Research.
    — Nicholas P. Brown, USA Today, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of remodel
Verb
  • Under his leadership, CME transformed from a floor-trading exchange into a global derivatives giant.
    — , CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
  • The mood of the season was taking a very pragmatic and utilitarian item, and transforming it into something much more decorative and fashun.
    — Christian Allaire, Vogue, 27 Aug. 2026
Definition of transform

Browse Nearby Words

modifies
modify
modifying
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Cite this Entry

“Modify.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/modify. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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