Definition

1. Verb:
   • To vary the frequency, amplitude, phase, or other characteristic of (electromagnetic waves): To make systematic changes to a wave signal.
   • To adjust the pitch, tone, or volume of (sound or one's voice): To change the quality or intensity of a sound in a controlled manner.
   • To fix or adjust the time, amount, degree, or rate of; to regulate: To control or set something to a desired level or condition.
   • To change the key of, in music: To transition from one musical key to another.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Engineers modulate the radio carrier wave to transmit information.
  • A skilled singer can modulate their voice to convey different emotions.
  • The thermostat modulates the room's temperature automatically.
  • The composer chose to modulate from C major to G major in the bridge.

Advanced Usage

• "to modulate between": to change or alternate between different states, keys, or tones.
  • The piece modulates between minor and major keys to create tension and release.
• "to modulate one's tone": to consciously adjust the emotional quality of one's speaking voice.
  • During the negotiation, she learned to modulate her tone to sound more diplomatic.

Variants and Related Words

• Modulation (n): The process or result of modulating.
  • The modulation of her voice was very effective in the speech.
• Modulator (n): A device or agent that causes modulation.
  • The radio transmitter contains a modulator.

Synonyms

• Adjust: To change something so that it fits, corresponds, or functions better.
• Regulate: To control or maintain the rate or speed of a machine or process.
• Temper: To moderate or soften the effect of something.
• Inflect: To change the pitch or tone of the voice.

Related Phrasal Verbs

(This word does not commonly form phrasal verbs. Its meaning is typically expressed directly.)

Related Idioms

(There are no common idioms that use the verb "modulate" as their core component.)

Verb

1. vary the frequency, amplitude, phase, or other characteristic of (electromagnetic waves)
2. adjust the pitch, tone, or volume of
3. fix or adjust the time, amount, degree, or rate of
   • regulate the temperature
   • modulate the pitch
4. vary the pitch of one's speech
5. change the key of, in music
   • modulate the melody