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 Young people will be better equipped than older workers to adjust to AI’s disruptive economic effects, new research from two major investment banks suggested. Tom Chivers, semafor.com, 9 Jan. 2026 Substitute with pork chops or chicken thighs for the tenderloin, adjusting cook time until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for chicken or 145°F for chops. Amanda Stanfield, Southern Living, 9 Jan. 2026 Control is handled through the GOALKER mobile app, which allows users to schedule mowing times, define and manage multiple zones, adjust cutting heights and monitor progress remotely. Hummingbird, New York Daily News, 9 Jan. 2026 After the closing, drivers reported slower traffic and the need to adjust their travel times on alternative routes. Kansas City Star, 9 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for adjust
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adjust
Verb
  • The series, which was adapted from Liz Moore's novel of the same name, centers on Seyfried's Mickey, a police officer who works in the Philadelphia neighborhood of Kensington at the height of the opioid crisis.
    Brenton Blanchet, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026
  • These are the ones most likely to be adapted for crowd monitoring throughout cities.
    Emma Bussey, FOXNews.com, 12 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • George, 64, wore a black tuxedo by Giorgio Armani tailored to perfection.
    Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026
  • The same rigor needs to be applied to training that is tailored to the distinct skills needed to thrive in a remote setting or manage distributed teams.
    Justin Harlan, Fortune, 11 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Add a breast cancer diagnosis—with its potential surgeries, scars and treatment side effects—and the pressure to conform to outdated beauty standards can feel disheartening.
    Tabitha Britt, Flow Space, 30 Oct. 2025
  • That was a clear issue in New Hampshire, which was unable to change its date to conform to the DNC’s 2024 calendar amid resistance from top Republican leaders in the state.
    Caroline Vakil, The Hill, 27 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • With her signature long waves gathered into a subtle bun at the nape of her neck, this style puts the focus on the sculptural wave framing Seyfried's face opposite a deep side part.
    Grace McCarty, Glamour, 12 Jan. 2026
  • Jalen Brunson's running layup put New York up 72-62 early in the third quarter but the Blazers chipped away, pulling within 90-88 early in the fourth.
    CBS News, CBS News, 12 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Curtain bangs are hyper-customized to suit your face, not just to blend in.
    Loren Savini, Allure, 10 Jan. 2026
  • The team can also suggest specific pavilion and villa types best suited to guests with mobility issues.
    Carley Rojas Avila, Travel + Leisure, 9 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Adjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adjust. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on adjust

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