Definition

1. Noun:
   • The act of making a change or modification to something: "Altering" refers to the process of changing something, often its form, appearance, or character.
   • The sterilization of an animal: In a specific context, particularly veterinary, "altering" is a common term for the surgical procedure to sterilize an animal (e.g., a cat or dog), making it incapable of reproduction.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The altering of the original document was discovered by the auditors. (A change was made to the original document.)
  • Responsible pet owners consider altering their pets to prevent overpopulation. (The sterilization of pets is considered.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be in the process of altering": undergoing change or modification.
  • The policy is currently in the process of altering to meet new regulations.
• Used as a gerund (a verb form ending in -ing that functions as a noun).
  • Altering the plan now would cause significant delays.

Variants and Related Words

• Alter (verb): to change or make different.
  • She decided to alter her dress for a better fit.
• Alteration (noun): a change or modification.
  • The building plans required several alterations.
• Unaltered (adjective): not changed.
  • The landscape remains unaltered for centuries.

Synonyms

• Changing: making or becoming different.
• Modifying: making partial or minor changes.
• Neutering (specific to animals): sterilizing a male animal.
• Spaying (specific to animals): sterilizing a female animal.

Related Phrases

• Altering course: changing direction, often used literally (e.g., sailing) or figuratively.
  • The company is altering course to focus on digital products.
• Altering one's appearance: changing how one looks.
  • He considered altering his appearance with a new hairstyle.

Related Idioms

• Alter ego: a second self or a very close friend who seems to represent another side of one's personality.
  • The superhero's alter ego is a mild-mannered reporter.
• Alter the balance of power: to change the existing state of control or influence.
  • The new treaty could alter the balance of power in the region.

Noun

1. the sterilization of an animal
   • they took him to the vet for neutering