Synonyms of modify

modify

verb

ˈmä-də-ˌfī 

1

as in to alter

to limit the meaning of (as a noun)

adjectives are words that modify nouns, while adverbs can modify adjectives and verbs

Synonyms & Similar Words

• alter
• qualify
• misrepresent
• distort
• color
• narrow
• misstate
• warp
• pervert
• twist

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• expand
• broaden
• widen

2

as in to change

to make different in some way

he modified the appliance so that it would run more quietly

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• set
• fix
• stabilize
• freeze

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of modify are alter, change, and vary. While all these words mean "to make or become different," modify suggests a difference that limits, restricts, or adapts to a new purpose.

modified the building for use by the disabled

When can alter be used instead of modify?

The meanings of alter and modify largely overlap; however, 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 modify?

The words change and modify are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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

When would vary be a good substitute for modify?

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

vary your daily routine

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of modify

The bureaucratic organizations in India adopted and modified the centralized authority of the Mughals, and Mughal administrative units are reflected in the country’s district administrations. —Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Apr. 2026

The White House has denied any wrongdoing and signaled no intention to modify its aggressive approach to immigration — a deep source of frustration for Sheinbaum and her new top diplomat. —Los Angeles Times, 14 Apr. 2026

Not to be redistributed, copied, or modified in any way. —ArsTechnica, 13 Apr. 2026

This barge has also been modified to operate safely in international waters. —Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 11 Apr. 2026