What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
amend
Example
The lawyer suggested amending the contract to include additional clauses. [amend: verb]
Example
I need to amend my essay to address the professor's feedback. [amend: verb]
Example
He apologized and offered to amend his mistake by fixing the error. [amend: verb]
modify
Example
We need to modify the design to make it more user-friendly. [modify: verb]
Example
I modified the recipe to use ingredients I had on hand. [modified: past tense]
Example
She decided to modify her approach to the project after receiving feedback. [modify: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Modify is more commonly used than amend in everyday language. Modify is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts, while amend is more specific and often used in legal or written contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between amend and modify?
Amend is often associated with formal or legal contexts, while modify can be used in both formal and informal settings. Therefore, amend is considered more formal than modify.