Synonyms of alter

alter

verb

ˈȯl-tər 

1

as in to modify

to make different in some way

can't you alter your plans just slightly so we can leave 10 minutes earlier?

Synonyms & Similar Words

• modify
• change
• remodel
• transform
• rework
• revise
• recast
• remake
• refashion
• vary
• redo
• revamp
• deform
• make over
• mutate
• metamorphose
• revolutionize
• transmute
• transfigure
• exchange
• convert
• regenerate
• retool
• commute
• rejigger

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• set
• fix
• stabilize
• freeze

2

as in to fix

to remove the sex organs of

contends that cats and dogs that have been altered make better pets

Synonyms & Similar Words

• fix
• neuter
• sterilize
• emasculate
• desex
• castrate
• geld
• spay

Synonym Chooser

How is the word alter different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of alter are change, modify, and vary. While all these words mean "to make or become different," alter implies a difference in some particular respect without suggesting loss of identity.

slightly altered the original design

When is it sensible to use change instead of alter?

In some situations, the words change and alter are roughly equivalent. However, change implies making either an essential difference often amounting to a loss of original identity or a substitution of one thing for another.

changed the shirt for a larger size

In what contexts can modify take the place of alter?

The synonyms modify and alter are sometimes interchangeable, but modify suggests a difference that limits, restricts, or adapts to a new purpose.

modified the building for use by the disabled

When might vary be a better fit than alter?

Although the words vary and alter have much in common, vary stresses a breaking away from sameness, duplication, or exact repetition.

vary your daily routine

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of alter

Multiple Premier League clubs in the capital contacted by The Athletic confirmed their security arrangements were being altered accordingly following the increase in threat level, which was raised after two members of the Jewish community were stabbed in Golders Green, north London, on Wednesday. —Ali Rampling, New York Times, 1 May 2026

Per the report, Lindsey continued to cooperate with police and signed a document acknowledging the use of a fraudulent or altered form of identification. —Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 1 May 2026

Though this gave teams an unusually long in-season time to alter their cars, Friday’s practice and Sprint qualifying were the first time drivers learned how their semi-new cars would respond. —David J. Neal may 1, Miami Herald, 1 May 2026

The nation’s second-largest school system, with close to 400,000 students, faces evolving challenges and uncertainties that could alter the direction of the district for years. —Howard Blume, Los Angeles Times, 1 May 2026

Phrases Containing alter

• alter ego