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 After a few minutes, your eyes gradually adjust, and the performers, the maybe-lovers, come into view, flesh on the ground, writhing and making out and embracing. Nate Freeman, Vanity Fair, 8 May 2026 Traditionally, House district maps are redrawn every ten years, falling in line with the release of census data to adjust for population changes and migration. Connor Greene, Time, 8 May 2026 The players themselves, however, just want to get adjusted to their new surroundings. Miami Herald, 8 May 2026 If the bike does not stop quickly when pressing on the brake handles, or the handles collapse to the grip without any braking power, they can be adjusted. Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 8 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for adjust
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adjust
Verb
  • Lamborghini says the front and rear subframes are entirely new, while the carbon-fiber monocoque has been adapted specifically for the open-top configuration.
    James Morris, Forbes.com, 10 May 2026
  • The first book was adapted for the big screen by Lim and her team, and became a smash hit, earning over $239 million worldwide.
    Arushi Jacob, Variety, 10 May 2026
Verb
  • There are 18 mini games that can be tailored to a group’s wishes or selected at random.
    Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 14 May 2026
  • Even in the United States, his student turned assistant Henry LeTang became the tap teacher to hundreds, from starlets needing tailoring to the great Gregory Hines.
    Brian Seibert, New Yorker, 13 May 2026
Verb
  • Large beige curtains can add a delicate formality and coziness to your living room while still conforming to your style.
    Macie Stump, Southern Living, 10 May 2026
  • Also in the fall 2023 semester, Texas A&M University shut down its DEI offices and revised its hiring policies to conform with the law.
    Mateo Rosiles, USA Today, 7 May 2026
Verb
  • If a drug retails for $100 and a hospital can buy it for $60, then charges the patient or their insurance the full $100 price, the hospital then has $40 to put toward other expenses.
    Dené K. Dryden, Twin Cities, 8 May 2026
  • Neto expanded and was able to put a ball into right field.
    LaMond Pope, Chicago Tribune, 7 May 2026
Verb
  • This button-down shirt is well-suited for officewear thanks to its pinstripe design — a polished take on the trend that works with everything from slacks to midi skirts.
    Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 12 May 2026
  • Scientists are turning to conservation genomics — sequencing DNA to identify organisms with traits suited to survive climate extremes.
    Annika Hammerschlag, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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