Definition

1. Verb:
   • To change something slightly, often to improve it or to make it less extreme: "modify" means to make partial alterations to something, typically to adjust, adapt, or refine it.
   • To limit or add a qualification to the meaning of a word: In grammar, "modify" means for a word or phrase to describe or qualify another word, such as an adjective modifying a noun.

Examples of Usage

• Verb (General Meaning):
  • The architect had to modify the building plans to meet new safety regulations.
  • She modified her diet to include more vegetables and less sugar.
• Verb (Grammar):
  • In the phrase "the red car," the adjective "red" modifies the noun "car."
  • Adverbs often modify verbs, as in "She ran quickly."

Advanced Usage

• "to modify one's behavior/approach": to adjust one's actions or methods.
  • He modified his teaching approach to better suit the online format.
• "to modify a statement": to change or qualify what has been said.
  • The spokesperson later modified her initial statement to clarify the company's position.

Variants and Related Words

• Modification (n): a change or alteration.
  • The car required several modifications before the race.
• Modifier (n): a word that qualifies or limits another word (grammar), or a person or thing that makes modifications.
  • "Very" is an intensifying modifier.
• Modified (adj): changed or altered.
  • This is a genetically modified organism (GMO).

Synonyms

• Alter: to change, often in a minor way.
• Adjust: to change something to fit or work better.
• Adapt: to adjust to new conditions.
• Revise: to re-examine and make alterations to (especially text).

Related Phrasal Verbs

(Note: "modify" is not commonly used with particles to form standard phrasal verbs. The action is typically expressed directly.)

Related Idioms

• "Modify one's stance/tone": to make one's position or manner of speaking less harsh or extreme.
  • After hearing the complaints, the manager modified his tone and became more understanding.

Verb

1. cause to change; make different; cause a transformation
   • The advent of the automobile may have altered the growth pattern of the city
   • The discussion has changed my thinking about the issue
2. add a modifier to a constituent
3. make less severe or harsh or extreme
   • please modify this letter to make it more polite
   • he modified his views on same-gender marriage