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.

These changes significantly alter how carbon is stored and circulated in these ecosystems.

From Science Daily

Similar effects may occur in atomically thin magnetic materials, where even small movements can alter magnetic order.

From Science Daily

The goal is for the altered males to mate with females, producing eggs that don’t hatch.

From Los Angeles Times

One possible explanation is that the plant alters the chemical form of the antibiotics, making them easier for fish to take in.

From Science Daily

Loss of the Y has been shown to alter gene expression in blood-forming cells and those involved in immune responses.

From Science Daily

alter

Usage

Example Sentences

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