What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
adjust
Example
I need to adjust the temperature on the oven to cook this dish properly. [adjust: verb]
Example
He had to adjust to the new time zone after his flight. [adjust: verb]
Example
The mechanic adjusted the carburetor to improve the car's performance. [adjusted: past tense]
modify
Example
She modified her dress to fit the new fashion trend. [modified: past tense]
Example
We need to modify the design to meet the client's requirements. [modify: verb]
Example
The software developer modified the code to fix the bug. [modified: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Adjust is more commonly used than modify in everyday language. Adjust is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while modify is more specific and often used in technical or specialized fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between adjust and modify?
Both adjust and modify are neutral and can be used in formal or informal contexts. However, modify may have a more technical or specialized connotation, making it more appropriate for formal or professional settings.
