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 Peters asked, adjusting his hair in his phone’s front camera. Ashley Miznazi, Miami Herald, 27 Mar. 2026 Researchers calculated the average number of monthly searches per state and adjusted the data per 100,000 residents. Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 27 Mar. 2026 Instead of relying on electronics, the robots use their shape and flexibility to generate motion and adjust to their surroundings in real time. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 27 Mar. 2026 The report also noted that preventative measures could be taken through a change in legislation or policy to adjust priority levels for similar cases. Shannon Tyler march 27, Idaho Statesman, 27 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for adjust
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adjust
Verb
  • Future research will likely focus on boosting efficiency and adapting the process for continuous, large-scale operation.
    Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 29 Mar. 2026
  • Written by Italian playwright Stefano Massini as an epic poem and adapted for the stage by Ben Power, the play’s language is lyrical and gorgeously descriptive.
    Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Such a model could blend the strongest elements of existing systems under one roof while remaining tailored to older adults.
    Crystal Hudson, New York Daily News, 1 Apr. 2026
  • Under strict scrutiny, the government has to prove that a restriction on speech is narrowly tailored to protect a compelling interest, which is generally preventing harm to an individual or the public at large, according to the Freedom Forum.
    BrieAnna J. Frank, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Under the plan projected to cost $5 million, the Brown Mansion will be renovated with a front porch and cupola built to conform with the original Victorian style.
    Jim Woods, Chicago Tribune, 27 Mar. 2026
  • In order to address safety concerns, the Connecticut bill would require that any plug-in solar devices conform to the state’s building code and undergo testing and certification by a national product safety group, such as UL Solutions.
    John Moritz, Hartford Courant, 25 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • That $4 million APY puts him outside the Top 30 among all offensive tackles in the league.
    Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 27 Mar. 2026
  • The second half belonged to the Hornets as Grant Williams' 3 put Charlotte up 94-76 entering the fourth quarter.
    CBS News, CBS News, 27 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Not every capable, motivated person is suited for every job.
    Johnny C. Taylor Jr, USA Today, 31 Mar. 2026
  • Available on both Windows and macOS, AcePDF is suited for users who need consistent document handling across platforms.
    StackCommerce Team, PC Magazine, 31 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Adjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adjust. Accessed 2 Apr. 2026.

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