What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
alters
Example
The new management team decided to alter the company's policies. [alters: verb]
Example
The therapist helped him alter his negative thought patterns. [alter: verb]
Example
The tailor altered the dress to fit her perfectly. [altered: past tense]
adjust
Example
I need to adjust the settings on my camera for better pictures. [adjust: verb]
Example
It took me a while to adjust to the new school environment. [adjust: verb]
Example
She adjusted her seat to make herself more comfortable. [adjusted: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Adjust is more commonly used than alters in everyday language. Adjust is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while alters is less common and refers to more significant changes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between alters and adjust?
Both alters and adjust are appropriate for formal and informal contexts, but alters may be more formal due to its stronger connotation.
