Synonym Chooser

How does the verb adjust contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of adjust are accommodate, adapt, conform, and reconcile. While all these words mean "to bring one thing into correspondence with another," adjust suggests bringing into a close and exact correspondence or harmony such as exists between parts of a mechanism.

adjusted the budget to allow for inflation

When would accommodate be a good substitute for adjust?

The synonyms accommodate and adjust are sometimes interchangeable, but accommodate may suggest yielding or compromising to effect a correspondence.

accommodated his political beliefs in order to win

In what contexts can adapt take the place of adjust?

In some situations, the words adapt and adjust are roughly equivalent. However, adapt implies a modification according to changing circumstances.

adapted themselves to the warmer climate

When could conform be used to replace adjust?

The words conform and adjust are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, conform applies to bringing into accordance with a pattern, example, or principle.

refused to conform to society's values

When is it sensible to use reconcile instead of adjust?

The meanings of reconcile and adjust largely overlap; however, reconcile implies the demonstration of the underlying compatibility of things that seem to be incompatible.

tried to reconcile what he said with what I knew

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of adjust In turn, should the screening of an idea or initiative (un)intentionally marginalize or negatively impact a group of students, leadership is to adjust the idea/plan, 'run' the idea through the REAP again, and check inclusion. Krista Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal, 2 Oct. 2025 Secure loose outdoor items and adjust plans as necessary so you're not caught outside. Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 2 Oct. 2025 If the shutdown persists, NPS may adjust the plans. Connor Greene, Time, 2 Oct. 2025 Those limits are adjusted for inflation annually. Jeanne Sahadi, CNN Money, 2 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for adjust
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adjust
Verb
  • Fueled by technology, our language adapts to new slang trends more rapidly than ever.
    Phaedra Trethan, USA Today, 5 Oct. 2025
  • Crafted to adapt to the unique demands of each story, the guide provides flexibility while upholding the highest standards of journalistic integrity.
    Nashville Tennessean, Nashville Tennessean, 5 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Meta launches online safety lessons for students Beyond apps and schools, Meta partnered with Childhelp to create a nationwide online safety curriculum tailored for middle schoolers.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 4 Oct. 2025
  • And, restoring and maintaining the health of Florida’s 1,100 springs will require further study to tailor appropriate interventions to each one.
    Christopher F. Meindl, The Conversation, 3 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The high-compression fabric conforms to the body, while the double-layered waistband ensures a secure fit.
    Jacqueline Tempera, PEOPLE, 5 Oct. 2025
  • For example, some birds of prey did not conform to the male advantage among birds, with female falcons and hawks in zoos outliving their male counterparts, according to the study.
    Amarachi Orie, CNN Money, 3 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Let the filter dry completely before putting it back and using the blow dryer again.
    Cody Godwin, USA Today, 5 Oct. 2025
  • Notre Dame had a 79-yard TD drive in the third quarter and a 52-yarder in the fourth to put the game away.
    Jim Keyser, Idaho Statesman, 5 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Sweeney and Dickson have been experimenting with more playful sartorial risks in the few months too; sailor chic via Coperni, subversive corporate attire with a pantsless suit and tie combo via Jean Paul Gaultier, and silky power suiting by Oscar de la Renta.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 1 Oct. 2025
  • Individually, more fast-break chances would suit him well.
    Jay King, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Adjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adjust. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on adjust

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