A1verb1K

Change

UK /["/tʃeɪndʒ/","/ˈtʃeɪndʒɪz/","/tʃeɪndʒd/","/ˈtʃeɪndʒɪŋ/"]/US /["/tʃeɪndʒ/","/ˈtʃeɪndʒɪz/","/tʃeɪndʒd/","/ˈtʃeɪndʒɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to become different

In simple words: to make something different

Examples

  • I decided to change my hairstyle for the summer.
  • It's important to change your perspective on challenges.
  • She wants to change her job to find something more fulfilling.
  • Please change the channel to something more interesting.
  • The leaves change color in the autumn.
  • He had to change his plans due to unforeseen circumstances.
  • They managed to change the outcome of the game.
  • It can be hard to change old habits.

Usage notes

Use 'change' when talking about making modifications or alterations. It's appropriate in both spoken and written English, in casual or formal contexts. Avoid using it in a situation that requires a more specific term, like 'transform' or 'alter'.

Grammar pattern

change + object

Memory hint

Think of 'change' as taking off an old coat and putting on a new one.

Collocations

  • considerably
  • dramatically
  • drastically
  • from
  • into
  • to
  • change out of all recognition
  • considerably
  • dramatically
  • drastically
  • from
  • into
  • to
  • change out of all recognition
  • considerably
  • dramatically
  • drastically
  • from
  • into
  • to
  • change out of all recognition

Synonyms

  • alter
  • modify
  • transform
  • shift
  • revise

Antonyms

  • remain
  • stay

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'exchange' which means to swap something.
  • Using 'change' without an object, e.g., saying 'I change' instead of 'I change my clothes'.
  • 'Changed' and 'change' misused in verb forms.