Definition of adjustnext

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 As traditional retailers scramble to adjust inventory size curves, circular apparel channels such as resale, consignment and clothing rental are booming. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 9 Oct. 2026 After generating articles in English, the ChatGPT users in Iran prompted the chatbot to adjust the draft to fit submission criteria for a specific outlet and to generate a pitch email to send to an editor there. — Miriam Waldvogel, Washington Post, 9 Oct. 2026 The height can also be adjusted, and the monitor can pivot, swivel, and tilt for a more comfortable viewing angle. — George Yang, PC Magazine, 9 Oct. 2026 By synchronizing 12 traffic signals between Topanga Canyon Boulevard and John Tyler Drive, Caltrans can now adjust signals in real time. — Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for adjust
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adjust
Verb
  • In the kids space, Studiocanal is also adapting Dermot O’Leary’s Toto the Ninja Cat and Astrid Lindgren’s Pippi Longstocking with Heyday.
    — Max Goldbart, Deadline, 6 Oct. 2026
  • But that hands-on approach is what nonprofits are struggling to adapt to.
    — Sydney Lake, Fortune, 6 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • The pool has shallow areas for little ones to play in, and the Opium Spa offers treatments tailored to kids and teens.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Oct. 2026
  • Some include stool-sample testing and tailored eating plans sold as a way to recalibrate the gut, exactly the kind of individualized guidance people with chronic gut issues may be looking for.
    — Ashley Lynch, Sacbee.com, 6 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • In fact, all my attempts to conform to Apple’s requirements for the new Screen Time have taken a while to kick in.
    — Jennifer Pattison Tuohy, The Verge, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Rather than conforming to what others — especially her brothers — expect of her, Red Jacob urges Ellen to play to her own unique strengths.
    — Max Gao, HollywoodReporter, 5 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • The joy of being in DTLA is proximity to transit, putting Santa Monica, Pasadena, and everywhere in between within easy reach without necessarily needing Ubers or a rental car.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Oct. 2026
  • Choudri also made headlines earlier this year after the authority put him on leave after police arrested him at his Folsom home following a fight between his daughter and fiancée.
    — Lia Russell, Sacbee.com, 10 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • That said, the vibe is definitely more refined and suited to couples and solo or business travelers.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Built in 2005 for the ATP World Tour Finals, the 15,000-seat tennis venue features a fragmented steel roof that opens and closes to suit indoor or outdoor play.
    — Kieron Marchese, Architectural Digest, 6 Oct. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Adjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adjust. Accessed 13 Oct. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster