Modification

Definition

Modification refers to the action of making partial or minor changes to something, typically so as to improve it or to make it less extreme.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌmɑdɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/
• Respelling: mah-dih-fih-KAY-shun (with "mah" as in "monitor," "dih" as in "differ," "fih" as in "fit," "KAY" as in "day," and "shun" as in "mission")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌmɒdɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/
• Respelling: mod-ih-fih-KAY-shun (with "mod" as in "modest," "ih" as in "fit," "fih" as in "fit," "KAY" as in "day," and "shun" as in "mission")

In both dialects, "modification" places the primary stress on the fourth syllable, "KAY." The pronunciation is similar across both American and British English, with slight differences in the vowel sounds of the first syllable: "mah-dih-fih-KAY-shun" in American English and "mod-ih-fih-KAY-shun" in British English.

Etymology

The word "modification" is derived from the French word "modification", stemming from the Latin "modificatio" which is a combination of "modus" meaning "measure" or "manner" and "facere" meaning "to make".

Derivatives

• Modify
• Modifier
• Modifiable
• Unmodified
• Overmodification

Synonyms

• Alteration
• Adjustment
• Change

Antonyms

• Stagnation
• Preservation
• Maintenance

Usage

"Modification" is often used to denote changes made to objects, plans, or procedures, usually to enhance, correct, or tailor them to specific needs.

• The software received a minor modification to fix the bugs.
• Genetic modification is a contentious subject in many circles.
• The contract underwent a modification after both parties negotiated further terms.

Related Terms

• Modify
• Modulus
• Modality

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The Act or Process of Changing or Altering Something: Especially to improve it or make it more fit for a particular purpose.‍
• Example: The car underwent a modification to improve its aerodynamics.

• A Change Made to Something: Especially in order to improve it.‍
• Example: All modifications to the original design were documented in the engineer's report.

• A Qualifying or Limiting Statement or Term: A restriction.‍
• Example: The plan was approved without any modifications, much to the team's delight.