Modification: Definition, Usage & Key Examples

Meaning 1：make small changes (modification)

modification 🔊

/ˌmɒdɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/

the act of making small changes to something to improve it or make it more suitable

Modification concept illustrated by a person editing code or a document on a laptop, showing a small, thoughtful change.

make small changes 🔊

➕

/meɪk smɔːl ˈtʃeɪndʒɪz/

It refers to the act of altering something slightly to enhance its functionality or suitability.

📁 Category：Technological Inventions 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'modificatio', from 'modus' (manner) and 'facere' (to make).

💡 Mnemonic

MODification: a MODest change to make something better.

📖 Example

The latest software update includes a small modification to improve battery life. 🔊 The most recent software update contains a minor adjustment to enhance battery duration.

🔗 Collocations

make a modification – to implement a change

minor modification – a small alteration

software modification – changes made to computer programs

🔄 Synonyms

adjustment (n.) – a small change made to achieve a better fit or function

alteration (n.) – the act of making something different without completely changing it

change (n.) – the act or instance of making or becoming different

🚫 Antonyms

preservation (n.) – the act of maintaining something in its original state

stagnation (n.) – lack of activity, growth, or development

🌱 Derivatives

modify (v.) – to make partial or minor changes to something

modifiable (adj.) – capable of being modified

📖 Cultural Story

Derived from Latin 'modificatio', meaning 'a measuring'. In modern English, it is frequently used in technology, law, and engineering contexts to denote minor adjustments for improvement.