an alteration

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an alteration" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a change or modification made to something, such as a document, design, or plan. Example: "The architect made an alteration to the original blueprint to improve the building's layout."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Such an alteration may be manifest in altered disease susceptibility.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Lievsay made an alteration.

The Guardian - Film

Is changing the focal point an alteration?

The New York Times

This is an alteration of the scene".

The New Yorker

An alteration by Christopher Bullock of Betterton's The revenge itself, an alteration of Marston's Dutch courtezan.

Yale University

Ms. Brow saw an alteration in Ms. Saunders.

The New York Times

She said that owners contemplating such an alteration must now file what is known as an Alteration Type II application with the Buildings Department.

The New York Times

But some of the offending clubs are big enough to make an alteration for the better.

The Guardian - Sport

So they do their A-line skirts, then make an alteration on a neckline.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The lethal virus, they discovered, had an alteration in one base in that gene.

The New York Times

"No other public death produces so personal an alteration in one's world".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an alteration", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being changed and the purpose of the change. For example, specify "an alteration to the design" or "an alteration for improved performance".

Common error

Avoid using "an alteration" without specifying what is being altered. For instance, instead of saying "there was an alteration", clarify with "there was "an alteration to the plans" to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an alteration" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It represents the concept of a change or modification. Ludwig provides many examples demonstrating this usage across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

32%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an alteration" is a versatile noun phrase used to denote a change or modification. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse fields like news, science, and academia. While alternatives like "a modification" or "a change" exist, "an alteration" provides a specific nuance suitable for various contexts. Remember to specify what is being altered for clarity. The examples provided by Ludwig emphasize its broad applicability and importance in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a modification

This alternative is a more direct synonym, emphasizing a change made to something.

a change

This alternative is the most basic and general synonym, indicating any form of transformation.

an adjustment

This alternative implies a slight or fine-tuned change, often for improvement.

a revision

This alternative suggests a more formal or thorough change, often in written material.

an amendment

This alternative is specifically used for changes to legal documents or rules.

a transformation

This alternative indicates a significant and dramatic change.

a conversion

This alternative implies changing something into a different form or system.

a restructuring

This alternative signifies a change in the organization or structure of something.

a reshaping

This alternative suggests a change in the form or appearance of something.

a refinement

This alternative indicates a subtle change to improve quality or precision.

FAQs

How can I use "an alteration" in a sentence?

You can use "an alteration" to refer to a change or modification made to something. For example, "The architect proposed "an alteration to the building"'s facade."

What's the difference between "an alteration" and "a modification"?

While both terms refer to changes, "an alteration" often implies a change that is less significant or fundamental than "a modification". The choice depends on the degree of change you wish to convey.

What can I say instead of "an alteration"?

Alternatives to "an alteration" include "a change", "a modification", "an adjustment", or "a revision", depending on the specific context and the nature of the change.

Is it always necessary to specify what is being altered when using "an alteration"?

While not always grammatically required, specifying what is being altered often enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity. For instance, instead of "the document requires an alteration", it's clearer to say "the document requires an alteration to the introduction."