alter meaning and examples

Meaning

The verb alter means to change something, usually in a small or moderate way, rather than completely transforming it. It refers to making adjustments, modifications, or revisions.

Grammar and Usage

• Part of speech: Verb (transitive & intransitive)

• Forms: alter – altered – altered – altering

• Usage patterns:

  • alter + noun (transitive) → "They altered the plan."
  • alter without object (intransitive) → "The situation has altered."

It is often used when the essence of something remains the same, but details or characteristics are adjusted.

Common Phrases

• alter one’s behavior
• alter the course
• alter a document
• alter clothes
• things have altered

Collocations

• verb + alter: drastically alter, slightly alter, permanently alter
• noun + alter: plan, behavior, document, appearance, decision
• adverb + alter: significantly alter, subtly alter, radically alter

Examples

1. She had to alter her dress to make it fit better.
2. The company decided to alter its strategy after the market crash.
3. His perspective on life altered after becoming a parent.
4. Climate change could alter the balance of ecosystems.
5. The teacher asked me to alter a few words in my essay.
6. Nothing has altered between us; we are still close friends.
7. The medicine may alter the way your body reacts to alcohol.
8. Technology continues to alter how people communicate.
9. She had her suit altered at the tailor.
10. The outcome of the trial may alter public opinion.

Synonyms or Related

• change
• modify
• revise
• adjust
• transform (stronger, more drastic change)