modification
8 synonyms for modification, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A change made to something, especially one that adjusts it without changing its basic nature.
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 modification
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
minor modification
genetic modification
make modifications
Etymology
From Middle French modification, from Latin modificatio ("a measuring"), from modificare ("to limit, regulate"); see "modify."
Full origin of modification →Frequently asked questions
What does “modification” mean?
The word “modification” means a change made to something, especially one that adjusts it without changing its basic nature. In plain terms, a change or adjustment made to something.
How do you pronounce “modification”?
“Modification” is pronounced mo-dih-fih-KAY-shuhn (/ˌmɑdɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “modification” in a sentence?
Here is “modification” used in a sentence: “The car needed a few modifications before passing inspection.”
What part of speech is “modification”?
“Modification” is a noun.
Where does the word “modification” come from?
The word “modification” comes from Latin. From Middle French modification, from Latin modificatio ("a measuring"), from modificare ("to limit, regulate"); see "modify.".
Is “modification” a common word?
“Modification” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between a modification and a complete change?
A modification is a change made to something that adjusts it without changing its basic nature, meaning the original thing remains fundamentally the same. A complete change or overhaul, by contrast, alters the essential character of the thing, not just its details.
Is modification the correct noun form of the verb modify?
Yes, modification is the noun form corresponding to the verb modify, describing the resulting change rather than the act of changing itself. For example, "they modified the design" becomes "they made a modification to the design."
What is the difference between modification and repair?
A modification is a deliberate change made to adjust or improve something without altering its basic nature, while a repair restores something to its original working condition after damage or malfunction. Modification implies an intentional design change, whereas repair implies fixing a defect.
