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 Paper towel dispenser was not working; dispenser was adjusted. Arkansas Online, 4 Sep. 2026 Many are adjusting their recipes due to structural concerns about cocoa costs. Cooper Katz McKim, NPR, 4 Sep. 2026 Its software can detect those variations and adjust each brick’s position accordingly. Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 4 Sep. 2026 The pilot can then adjust speed and make turns by pulling steering brake lines to deform the trailing edge or shifting weight in the harness. New Atlas, 4 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for adjust
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adjust
Verb
  • Yalcouye’s emergence feels like a big plus for Brighton, and the same can be said for the way in which Luka Vuskovic has adapted to the Premier League overnight.
    Stuart James, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026
  • These apps have features like investment account syncing, net worth tracking and custom spending categories that adapt to retirees’ changing financial needs.
    Faith Wakefield, USA Today, 7 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • The company established a global recognition framework while giving local leaders flexibility to tailor recognition to their teams and cultures.
    Candy Fernandez, Forbes.com, 10 Sep. 2026
  • The Falcons will tailor their game plan to Tagovailoa’s strengths, Stefanski said.
    Josh Kendall, New York Times, 10 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • However, insects such as the fruit fly and plants such as the silverweed cinquefoil have also been shown to conform to Gloger’s rule.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 3 Sep. 2026
  • The key lesson for personal branding is to embrace distinctiveness, substance, and a unique voice, rather than conforming to generic professionalism.
    William Arruda, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Have the Bills actually put enough around Josh Allen to win the AFC?
    Austin Mock, New York Times, 7 Sep. 2026
  • The ratios offer a little more room for expenses by putting a little less toward savings than the longstanding gold standard, the 50/30/20 budget.
    Becca Stanek, TheWeek, 7 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • Wilson has no doubt Ovechkin will embrace whatever role suits the team best.
    Mark Lazerus, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026
  • This celebrity favorite comes in five sizes to suit your burn time needs, including an extra large (with five wicks).
    Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 10 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Adjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adjust. Accessed 15 Sep. 2026.

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