alter

[awl-ter] / ˈɔl tər /

VERB

change

Synonyms

STRONGEST

adjust amend change develop modify reshape revamp revise shift transform vary

STRONG

adapt convert cook diversify doctor metamorphose mutate recast reconstruct refashion reform remodel renovate transmute turn

WEAK

correct mid-course dial back fine tune make different phony up recalibrate

Antonyms

STRONGEST

leave alone remain stagnate stay

WEAK

continue fix keep let stand maintain preserve retain sustain

VERB

sterilize animal

Synonyms

STRONGEST

change fix

STRONG

caponize castrate desexualize emasculate geld mutilate neuter spay unsex

Antonyms

STRONG

breed

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.

Previous research has shown that MPs DOM can produce reactive oxygen species, influence the formation of disinfection byproducts, and alter how pollutants attach to particles in water.

From Science Daily

"We will be exploring all possible avenues to alter the outcomes of this decision."

From Barron's

According to Einstein's theory of relativity, gravity alters the flow of time.

From Science Daily

Short-term corrections do not alter the long-term upward trend, and investors can take a wait-and-see approach ahead of the new year holidays, according to Nanhua Futures analysts in a commentary.

From The Wall Street Journal

By midday, at least a dozen Eurostar services between the UK, France, Belgium and the Netherlands had been cancelled – many more had also been delayed or altered.

From BBC

alter

Usage

Example Sentences

Related Words