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.

She will not do that, though she is seeking to alter how it is interpreted to allow more asylum seekers to be removed.

From BBC

Because sleep problems are common, measurable, and treatable, identifying and addressing them early could significantly alter the course of cardiovascular disease.

From Science Daily

"The temporal ratchet mechanism fundamentally alters our view of how cytokinesis works," emphasized Jan Brugués, corresponding author of the study.

From Science Daily

For decades, scientists believed aging mainly altered how cells function, not how many of each type exist.

From Science Daily

If beneficiaries agree, you can ask probate court to alter or terminate the trust.

From Barron's

alter

Usage

Example Sentences

Related Words