B2verb 10K+

Alter

🇬🇧 UK //ˈɔːltə// 🇺🇸 US //ˈɔltɚ//

Meaning of Alter

To make a change to something.

In simple words: To change something.

Alter in a sentence

• The dress was altered to fit better.
• We need to alter our approach to this problem.
• The law was altered after public feedback.
• You can alter the settings to customize your experience.
• They altered the plans due to bad weather.

How to use Alter

Use 'alter' when you want to indicate a change or modification. It is more formal than 'change'. Avoid using it for very minor or trivial adjustments.

Grammar pattern

alter + object

Memory hint

Think of 'alter' as 'altar', where something gets transformed or changed in a ceremony.

Related words

Collocations with Alter

• alter the course
• alter the agreement
• alter the design
• alter behavior
• alter personality

Synonyms for Alter

• modify
• adjust
• revise
• transform
• amend

Opposites of Alter

• preserve
• maintain
• retain

Common mistakes with Alter

• Confusing with 'change' - 'alter' usually implies a more significant adjustment.
• Using 'alter' without an object - it should always follow an object.
• Incorrectly using 'altered' as a noun.

Frequently asked questions about Alter

What does Alter mean?

To change something.

What is the definition of Alter?

To make a change to something.

How do you use Alter in a sentence?

The dress was altered to fit better.

Can you give another example of Alter?

We need to alter our approach to this problem.

What are synonyms for Alter?

Common alternatives include modify, adjust, revise, transform, amend.

What is the opposite of Alter?

Opposite meanings include preserve, maintain, retain.

What words go with Alter?

It commonly pairs with alter the course, alter the agreement, alter the design, alter behavior, alter personality.

What are common mistakes when using Alter?

Confusing with 'change' - 'alter' usually implies a more significant adjustment. Using 'alter' without an object - it should always follow an object. Incorrectly using 'altered' as a noun.

How do you pronounce Alter?

US: //ˈɔltɚ//, UK: //ˈɔːltə//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Alter?

Use 'alter' when you want to indicate a change or modification. It is more formal than 'change'. Avoid using it for very minor or trivial adjustments.

What CEFR level is Alter?

"Alter" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.