Synonyms of modify

modify

verb

ˈmä-də-ˌfī 

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

• alter
• qualify
• misrepresent
• distort
• color
• narrow
• misstate
• warp
• pervert
• twist

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• expand
• broaden
• widen

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

• alter
• change
• remodel
• transform
• rework
• revise
• recast
• remake
• refashion
• redo
• vary
• revamp
• deform
• mutate
• make over
• metamorphose
• revolutionize
• transmute
• convert
• transfigure
• exchange
• regenerate
• retool
• commute
• rejigger

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• set
• fix
• stabilize
• freeze

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

Recent Examples of modify

Editing features allow users to modify text, images, and page layouts directly within PDFs. —Stackcommerce Team, PC Magazine, 31 Mar. 2026

Pinsley said the next steps rest with the county executive, who will review the report with his staff, consider input from the Board of Commissioners and ultimately decide whether to adopt or modify the proposal as part of the county's administrative process. —Billal Rahman, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Mar. 2026

Construction began last month on the project, which is the largest capital project in the agency’s 53-year history and is expected to modify 15 stations through 2027, according to an RT news release. —Madison Smalstig, Sacbee.com, 31 Mar. 2026

Your lender may prefer to modify your borrowing terms rather than risk getting nothing or having to negotiate a lower settlement if the account goes unpaid. —Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 30 Mar. 2026