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alter

[awl-ter] / ˈɔl tər /




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.

It also said it would try to ensure that "people from working class and regional backgrounds do not feel they need to alter their behaviour, accents or language to fit in with the civil service".

From BBC • Jun. 8, 2026

Soaring ticket prices and extra security for US President Donald Trump do not alter the electric energy of fabled Madison Square Garden as it hosts games three and four of the NBA Finals.

From Barron's • Jun. 8, 2026

By carefully engineering the atomic interactions where two materials come into contact, the team was able to significantly alter the properties of a metallic material.

From Science Daily • Jun. 6, 2026

They say the changes will fundamentally alter the outlook for residential mortgage growth.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

Nevertheless, that surge of humanity did not alter his professional conduct.

From "One Hundred Years of Solitude" by Gabriel Garcia Marquez




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