alter

[awl-ter] / ˈɔl tər /

VERB

change

Synonyms

STRONGEST

adjust amend change develop modify reshape revamp revise shift transform vary

STRONG

adapt convert cook diversify doctor metamorphose mutate recast reconstruct refashion reform remodel renovate transmute turn

WEAK

correct mid-course dial back fine tune make different phony up recalibrate

Antonyms

STRONGEST

leave alone remain stagnate stay

WEAK

continue fix keep let stand maintain preserve retain sustain

VERB

sterilize animal

Synonyms

STRONGEST

change fix

STRONG

caponize castrate desexualize emasculate geld mutilate neuter spay unsex

Antonyms

STRONG

breed

Usage

What is another way to say alter? To alter is to make some partial change, as in appearance, while still preserving the identity: to alter a dress, as by raising the hem (to change a dress would mean to put on a different one). To change is to make a material difference so that something is distinctly different from what it was: to change one's opinion.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

As a result proposals to end the twice-yearly clock change have repeatedly stalled, and there are currently no plans to alter daylight saving in the UK.

From BBC

The report also identified "multiple potentially significant" mutations that may alter the bacterium's behaviour.

From BBC

The study found that excessive antioxidant intake can alter sperm DNA and may increase the likelihood of developmental differences in offspring, particularly in facial and skull formation.

From Science Daily

Even this small motion is enough to rhythmically alter the magnetic state.

From Science Daily

Throughout the oral arguments, various justices brought up concerns about the potential for absentee voters to recall their ballots to change or alter them in some type of way.

From Salon

alter

Usage

Example Sentences

Related Words