What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
alter
Example
The tailor will alter the dress to fit you perfectly. [alter: verb]
Example
The new manager plans to alter the company's policies. [alter: verb]
modify
Example
I need to modify my diet to include more vegetables. [modify: verb]
Example
The software developer will modify the program to fix the bug. [modify: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Modify is more commonly used than alter in everyday language. Modify is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while alter is less common and often used in more formal or technical settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between alter and modify?
Alter is typically associated with a more formal or serious tone, while modify is more neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
