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 Secure loose outdoor items and adjust plans as necessary so you’re not caught outside. Southern California Weather Report, Daily News, 6 Mar. 2026 As teams continue to learn how to adjust to evolving financial dynamics with their quarterbacks, the Seahawks found a process that worked. Jeff Howe, New York Times, 6 Mar. 2026 Advertisement The researchers of today’s study adjusted the data to account for short-term natural fluctuations in global temperature caused by factors like El Niño, volcanic eruptions, and solar cycles. Simmone Shah, Time, 6 Mar. 2026 When adjusting the calculation for Texas’ median income, the annual cost drops to about $9,351, reflecting differences in earnings between Texas and the national average. Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for adjust
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adjust
Verb
  • Some questions may be adapted into full columns, and transcripts of the chats remain available after each session concludes.
    Carolyn Hax, Washington Post, 27 Mar. 2026
  • The research also explores how robots apply machine learning to adapt to constantly changing surroundings.
    Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 9 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Readers should not rely solely on the content of this article and are encouraged to seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.
    Matthew Kayser, Miami Herald, 11 Mar. 2026
  • The food bank has a dietitian to tailor the meals to the patients' diseases, including diabetes, renal disease, heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders or other chronic illenesses.
    Nicole Villalpando, Austin American Statesman, 11 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The District voted late last year not to conform to the new tax laws, but Congress voted to reverse that decision in the middle of tax season.
    Medora Lee, USA Today, 4 Mar. 2026
  • Trump’s figure doesn’t conform to findings by retirement professionals such as the 401(k) overseers at Bank of America.
    Business Columnist, Los Angeles Times, 27 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Matthews left the game immediately, without putting any weight on the leg, and wasn’t able to return.
    James Mirtle, New York Times, 13 Mar. 2026
  • Consecutive victories over the New York Knicks and the Minnesota Timberwolves put the Lakers back in the contender conversation.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 13 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • For families The Marlton is best suited for adults.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Mar. 2026
  • Some plants need a lot of sun, others are suited to a shade garden, and still others fall somewhere in between.
    David Beaulieu, The Spruce, 10 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Adjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adjust. Accessed 14 Mar. 2026.

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