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 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 The post resonated with many developers who felt the company had sacrificed quality, choosing to artificially cap capabilities rather than adjusting their pricing model to reflect true costs. Andrew Filev, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025 The federal government argues the states can adjust their individual budgets. Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 14 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for adjust
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adjust
Verb
  • Being able to adapt to change, focus on what’s relevant, switch between tasks, manage conflict, and recognize systems that may be different are all important aspects of the answer to this question.
    Pia Lauritzen, Forbes.com, 27 Apr. 2025
  • But the upheaval taught him to adapt quickly — a quality that has served him well in his football career, which began with the Vikings’ heated rivals, the Green Bay Packers.
    Greg Hanlon, People.com, 27 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Anew Fitness removes these barriers by providing certified trainers who specialize in senior fitness, guiding participants through workouts tailored to their abilities.
    USA Today, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2025
  • On another note, the pleating on the matching trousers was tailored perfectly.
    Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 18 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • The pressure to conform or compromise is real, but staying true to your principles creates a foundation for lasting trust and meaningful success.
    Aslak de Silva, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025
  • Unlike picks in our guide, this is a softer mattress for sleepers who might look for a memory foam mattress that conforms to their bodies.
    Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 23 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Both leaders tend to put their feet in their mouths.
    Judy Berman, Time, 23 Apr. 2025
  • The fest in the Czech spa town has earned a reputation as one of the biggest summer celebrations of film in Central Europe, putting the spotlight on new releases from the region and far beyond, along with highlights of the film festival circuit from the past year.
    Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 23 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • With a stop at the Time 100 Summit, Meghan spoke to a rapt audience in a breezy tan Ralph Lauren suit just in time for the city's springtime thaw.
    Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Built with treads that are suited for the trails and the road, these versatile sneakers can double as your favorite walking shoes during your spring travels.
    Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 24 Apr. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Adjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adjust. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on adjust

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!