alter

[ˈɒltə]

alter Definition

to change something, usually slightly, or to cause the characteristics of something to change.

Using alter: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "alter" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She altered her dress to fit better.

  • Example

    The company has altered its marketing strategy.

  • Example

    The medication can alter your mood.

alter Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for alter

Phrases with alter

  • a person's secondary or alternative personality

    Example

    When he puts on his superhero costume, he becomes his alter ego.

  • to change direction or path

    Example

    The captain decided to alter course to avoid the storm.

  • alter one's ways

    to change one's behavior or habits

    Example

    After getting in trouble with the law, he decided to alter his ways and become a better person.

Origins of alter

from Old French 'alterer', from Late Latin 'alterare', from Latin 'alter', meaning 'other'

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Summary: alter in Brief

'Alter' [ˈɒltə] means to change something, usually slightly, or to cause the characteristics of something to change. It is often used in the context of modifying or adjusting something to fit better or to improve it. 'Alter' extends into phrases like 'alter ego,' referring to a person's secondary or alternative personality, and 'alter one's ways,' meaning to change one's behavior or habits.

How do native speakers use this expression?