modify
part of speech
verb (modify, modifies, modified, modifying); noun modification
meaning for a pupil
1) To modify something means to change it a little, usually to improve it or make it fit a purpose. tree →
2) (grammar) A word modifies another when it describes it or changes its meaning, like an adjective modifying a noun. tree →
3) (science) Genetically modified (GM) plants have had their genes changed by scientists. tree →
sense in the lessons
In design and technology, pupils modify their designs after testing; in grammar lessons adjectives and adverbs modify; in science GM crops are discussed. Phrases: «modify a design», «modified version», «genetically modified».
examples
- We modified our paper plane so it flew further. tree →
- Dad modified the recipe to use less sugar. tree →
- The game has been modified for younger players. tree →
- In «a red car», «red» modifies «car». tree →
- Scientists modify plants to resist pests. tree →
- Can you modify your sentence to make it clearer? tree →
- The bike was modified with a basket. tree →
- After testing, modify your model and test again. tree →
- But I have felt myself more at liberty than the translators themselves, who have generally been over-literal, in changing, excising, or modifying the original. tree →
note
Modify changes y to i: modifies, modified. Means about the same as «change» or «adjust» but sounds more formal. Modifying is changing a little, not completely.
Trees and pragmatics
Every meaning and example of «modify» parsed by Mova, each sentence with its dependency tree and frames.