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Definitions

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.

Congress cut taxes in 2013, 2017 and 2025, expanded government health coverage and veterans benefits, and did little to alter major spending programs.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

The nation’s second-largest school system, with close to 400,000 students, faces evolving challenges and uncertainties that could alter the direction of the district for years.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026

Extra fat tissue is thought to alter hormones in the body, such as insulin, which can affect the risk of cancer.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

The Gulf country said in a statement that it would exit the cartel effective May 1, adding that the decision wouldn’t alter its “commitment to global market stability,” state-run news agency WAM reported.

From Barron's • Apr. 28, 2026

“Manipulation of the right magic in the right way could alter the trajectory of fate magic ever so slightly, and cause far-reaching changes. Only fools can interact with fate magic directly, and only by accident.”

From Anya and the Dragon by Sofiya Pasternack

Vocabulary lists containing alter

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

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Words to Know Before You Defrost the Bird

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Commonly Confused Words, List 1

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