modify

Modify, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Modified; p. pr. & vb. n. Modifying.]

Etymology: [F. modifier, L. modificare, modificari; modus limit + -ficare (in comp.) to make. See Mode, and -fy.]

1. To change somewhat the form or qualities of; to alter somewhat; as, to modify a contrivance adapted to some mechanical purpose; to modify the terms of a contract.

2. To limit or reduce in extent or degree; to moderate; to qualify; to lower. Of his grace He modifies his first severe decree. Dryden.

Shades of meaning

Fernald has no entry of its own for modify; he lists it under change.

Where he writes about it:

We modify or qualify a statement which might seem too strong; we modify it by some limitation, qualify it by some addition. — from change

Synonyms

change alter commute convert diversify exchange metamorphose qualify shift substitute transfigure transform transmute turn vary veer

Antonyms

abide bide continue endure hold keep persist remain retain stay

etymology Webster’s online