alter the world

USAGE SUMMARY

This phrase is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in any context when referring to the idea of making significant changes and having a major impact. For example: "John dreamed of one day achieving greatness and becoming someone who could alter the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Some do alter the world, some do not.

The Guardian - Film

Meanwhile the exposure of the unadorned body has even started to alter the world of ballet.

The New York Times - Arts

There's something special, and alarming, too, about so much privilege hooked up to the desire to alter the world.

The Guardian - Film

To attempt to alter the world by increments of local improvisation and conservation is to fight against a mighty tide.

The New York Times - Books

It will obviously alter the world of gaming, and it points the way to new possibilities in cinema, too.

The Guardian - Arts

How do we know what experiences will alter the world as we know it if we're always in our own skin?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Every technological advance is violent, altering the world in a flash.

The New Yorker

Humans have already so violently altered the world that without "deliberate intervention" the future holds only loss and more loss.

The New Yorker

But when big events — like the rise of China — fundamentally altered the world economy, their tools were worse than useless.

The New York Times

Her immediate topic was pesticides, but her deeper subject was human arrogance — the delusion that altering the world means controlling it.

The New Yorker

The ability to check the waves without going to the beach and the seemingly simple yet vastly complex act of predicting waves has also altered the world of surfing.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "alter the world", consider the scale and scope of the change you're describing. Is it a subtle adjustment or a major transformation? Choose more specific synonyms if needed.

Common error

Avoid using "alter the world" when describing minor changes or localized events. The phrase implies a significant and widespread effect, so ensure your claim is justified.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "alter the world" functions as a verb phrase with a direct object. It describes the action of making a significant change to the world. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and usable in written English and can be used in any context referring to making significant changes and having a major impact.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Wiki

9%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "alter the world" is a commonly used phrase that expresses the idea of making a significant and lasting change on a global scale. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts. While the phrase carries a neutral register, it's essential to consider the scope and scale of the change being described to avoid overstating the impact. Related phrases like "change the world" or "transform the world" offer alternative ways to convey similar ideas. Predominantly found in news and media sources, this phrase encapsulates ambition and the potential to create positive global change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

change the world

This is the most direct synonym, emphasizing the act of causing transformation.

transform the world

Implies a more profound and dramatic change than simply altering it.

reshape the world

Focuses on changing the structure and form of the world.

revolutionize the world

Suggests a complete and fundamental shift in the world's systems.

impact the world

Highlights the effect and influence one has on a global scale.

have a global impact

Similar to 'impact the world', but stresses having an effect.

influence global affairs

More specific, relating to having sway in international matters.

make a global difference

Emphasizes the positive contribution to the world.

leave a lasting legacy

Focuses on the long-term impact one has on the world.

mold the future

Highlights shaping what's to come in the world.

FAQs

What does "alter the world" mean?

The phrase "alter the world" means to make a significant change or have a major impact on the world, its systems, or its people. It suggests a transformation that affects many on a global scale.

What can I say instead of "alter the world"?

You can use alternatives like "change the world", "transform the world", or "reshape the world" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "changing the world" instead of "alter the world"?

Yes, "changing the world" is a valid and commonly used alternative to "alter the world". Both phrases convey the idea of causing a significant transformation globally.

How do you use "alter the world" in a sentence?

You can use "alter the world" in a sentence like this: "She dedicated her life to finding a cure for cancer, hoping to "alter the world" through medical innovation."