adjust
12 synonyms for adjust, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To change something slightly so it works better or fits new circumstances.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use adjust
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
adjust to
adjust the settings
adjust a claim
Etymology
From Old French ajuster, ultimately tied to Latin iustus ("correct, exact") — the sense of making something precise or "just right."
Full origin of adjust →Frequently asked questions
What does “adjust” mean?
The word “adjust” means to change something slightly so it works better or fits new circumstances. In plain terms, to change or fine-tune something, or to get used to a new situation.
How do you pronounce “adjust”?
“Adjust” is pronounced uh-JUHST (/əˈd͡ʒʌst/ in IPA).
How do you use “adjust” in a sentence?
Here is “adjust” used in a sentence: “She adjusted the thermostat before going to bed.”
What part of speech is “adjust”?
“Adjust” is a verb.
Where does the word “adjust” come from?
The word “adjust” comes from Latin. From Old French ajuster, ultimately tied to Latin iustus ("correct, exact") — the sense of making something precise or "just right.".
Is “adjust” a common word?
“Adjust” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “adjust” have?
“Adjust” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to change something slightly so it works better or fits new circumstances.
What is the difference between "adjust" and "adapt"?
"Adjust" means to make small changes so something works better or fits new circumstances — you adjust a mirror or a schedule. "Adapt" usually implies more substantial change to suit a new purpose or environment, such as adapting a novel for film or adapting to life in a new country.
Do you "adjust something" or "adjust to something"?
Both are correct but mean different things. "Adjust something" is transitive and means to alter it slightly ("adjust the volume"), while "adjust to something" means to get used to new circumstances ("it took weeks to adjust to the time difference").
What is the difference between "adjust" and "modify"?
"Adjust" suggests small, fine-scale changes made so something fits or works better, often restoring a correct setting. "Modify" is broader and can cover more substantial alterations to design or structure, without the sense of tuning something toward a proper fit.
