VOOZH about

URL: https://forum.wordreference.com/threads/alter-vs-change.3688083/

⇱ "alter" vs "change" | WordReference Forums

Menu
Install the app
You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly.
You should upgrade or use an alternative browser.

"alter" vs "change"

Be better

Senior Member
Chinese
hi guys,

I want to know what is the difference between "alter" and "change"? Are they interchangeable?

eg: Her face hadn’t altered much over the years. Can "alter" in the sentence switch to "change"?

eg: I got the dress altered for the wedding. Can "alter" in the sentence switch to "change"? if the answer is no, then why?

Many thanks in advance!
eg: Her face hadn’t altered much over the years. Can "alter" in the sentence switch to "change"?
Yes.
eg: I got the dress altered for the wedding. Can "alter" in the sentence switch to "change"? if the answer is no, then why?
No. "Alter" here doesn't mean "change". It refers to the dress being re-tailored, to make modifications. If you used "changed", it'd mean you wore or got a different dress.

This is the definition that applies to the second sentence.
alter: (to cause to) be different or modified in some way, as size, style, course, or the like:[~ + object] to alter a coat.
alter - WordReference.com Dictionary of English

Are they interchangeable?
Not always.
Yes.

No. "Alter" here doesn't mean "change". It refers to the dress being re-tailored, to make modifications. If you used "changed", it'd mean you wore or got a different dress.

This is the definition that applies to the second sentence.
alter: (to cause to) be different or modified in some way, as size, style, course, or the like:[~ + object] to alter a coat.
alter - WordReference.com Dictionary of English


Not always.
When "alter" means "to change, or to make someone or something change ", then it can switch to "change"; if "alter" means "be different or modified in some way, as size, style, course, or the like", then it can't switch to change.

I was also wondering if "alter" may be more formal than "change"?

Many thanks!
I was also wondering if "alter" may be more formal than "change"?
I don't think formality comes into it. They're different words, and don't always mean the same thing.
I don't think formality comes into it. They're different words, and don't always mean the same thing.
Thank you so much!
Back
Top Bottom