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Definitions

alter

[awl-ter] / ˈɔl tər /




Usage

What is another way to say alter? To alter is to make some partial change, as in appearance, while still preserving the identity: to alter a dress, as by raising the hem (to change a dress would mean to put on a different one). To change is to make a material difference so that something is distinctly different from what it was: to change one's opinion. 

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Pushback from the fisheries industry was enough for Canada to alter its counter-tariffs by removing dozens of seafood items to avoid unintended consequences to its own economy.

From BBC Sep. 8, 2026

He understands this, but it doesn’t alter much.

From Los Angeles Times Sep. 7, 2026

More research will be needed to confirm the results, uncover the biological mechanisms involved, and determine whether diet or lifestyle changes can safely alter tyrosine levels in ways that promote healthier aging.

From Science Daily Sep. 6, 2026

The small size of Flash models means they require less computing capacity to alter, allowing multiple teams to try approaches out and develop them at once, the people said.

From The Wall Street Journal Sep. 1, 2026

“And Not Getting the Uniform Right—nay hair’s always too long, you’re not allowed to alter the coat so it’s always too big, things like that. And: Southerners laughing at my accent.”

From "Code Name Verity" by Elizabeth Wein

In her version, Bernhard alters the lyrics to pay tribute to Sylvester, whose untimely death left an immense legacy.

From Salon Sep. 5, 2026

Infant formula is designed to provide the correct balance of nutrients for babies when mothers cannot or choose not to breastfeed, and adding extra water alters that balance.

From BBC Aug. 16, 2026

He used his remission to promote CAR T-cell therapy, which genetically alters one’s cells to fight cancer, after he said chemotherapy stopped working.

From Los Angeles Times Jul. 13, 2026

"By reducing both inflammation and pain, GAE with resorbable microspheres may be the first procedure that alters the course of the disease, slowing its progression."

From Science Daily Jun. 17, 2026

“None of this alters the validity of the work done with HeLa cells,” she wrote, “but it may be worth noting—for the record.”

From "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot

Mr. Fetterman nearly died of a stroke days before his 2022 primary, and the close encounter with mortality altered his political outlook.

From The Wall Street Journal Sep. 6, 2026

Anderson's move from Forest to City for £116m, however, altered the complexion of Villa's outlook on Rogers' future.

From BBC Sep. 5, 2026

What’s even more frustrating is that, when it was first announced, the Met said the exhibition would address the derogatory conduct that fundamentally altered Galliano’s career and reception.

From Salon Sep. 5, 2026

It may also have potential as a supportive, non-pharmacological approach in clinical settings, particularly for conditions such as anxiety disorders or depression, which can involve disrupted autonomic regulation and altered responses to reward.

From Science Daily Sep. 4, 2026

Dr. Westminster’s expression altered to one of deep concentration.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood

Scientists say the warming climate is already altering the risks facing the Himalayan region.

From Barron's Sep. 3, 2026

Mis-splicing appeared across thousands of genes, potentially altering how important proteins function throughout damaged liver cells.

From Science Daily Aug. 31, 2026

He said what happened with Afropunk is “a tale as old as time” and Morgan being outside of the movement led to “moneyed interests” altering what Spooner had created.

From Los Angeles Times Aug. 20, 2026

His decision was the clearest example of the seismic shift that is permanently altering the shape of football careers.

From The Wall Street Journal Aug. 17, 2026

Hisao was lean and tough and worked methodically, never altering his pace.

From "Snow Falling on Cedars: A Novel" by David Guterson




Vocabulary lists containing alter


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