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 The death of Pope Francis, whose real name was Jorge Mario Bergoglio, on Monday marked the end of a 12-year papacy characterized by the late pontiff's desire to adjust the Church to the modern world and soften its approach regarding LGBTQ+ communities. Giulia Carbonaro, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Apr. 2025 Unclog sprinkler heads and adjust to ensure proper watering. Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 Apr. 2025 Even just adjusting your attitude toward bees and other insects can be a boon for them. Katie Akin, Southern Living, 26 Apr. 2025 Without an entry in the SEVIS database, international students cannot easily adjust or extend their legal status, meaning many of those whose records were terminated would likely soon be forced to leave the country. Adrian Florido, NPR, 25 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for adjust
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adjust
Verb
  • Lydon emphasized that Prevost’s thinking on such issues could adapt over time but emphasized that as pope, Prevost must now contend with the beliefs of more than a billion Catholics spread across the globe.
    Eric Bradner, CNN Money, 9 May 2025
  • This is a custom layer within the mattress designed to adapt and cradle sleepers at any position.
    Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 9 May 2025
Verb
  • At the end of the day, every person—and body—is unique, said Moreno, and obesity physicians should tailor the treatment plan to each patient’s needs.
    Julia Ries, Health, 13 May 2025
  • Readers should not rely solely on the content of this article and are encouraged to seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.
    Maria Williams, USA Today, 13 May 2025
Verb
  • The concept encourages lawn owners to take pride in their natural surroundings, but without the pressure to conform to a rigid, standard lawn appearance.
    Matt Rozo, Mercury News, 7 May 2025
  • Typically, once the aid industry conforms to the whims of donor countries, the crisis is averted and business continues as usual.
    Zainab Usman, Foreign Affairs, 5 May 2025
Verb
  • The last time Florida put a zero on the board through three periods?
    Adam Beasley, Miami Herald, 17 May 2025
  • Today, one extraordinary dining concept can put an entire region on the map for our clientele.
    Rebecca Ann Hughes, Forbes.com, 17 May 2025
Verb
  • Those conditions suited him better than the slop at Churchill Downs in the Derby.
    Fiifi Frimpong, New York Daily News, 18 May 2025
  • Glasner’s 3-4-2-1 system especially suits him, with its intense out-of-possession approach and an attacking focus on vertical play.
    Matt Woosnam, New York Times, 16 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Adjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adjust. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on adjust

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