an alteration to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an alteration to" 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, plan, or system. Example: "The committee proposed an alteration to the original plan to improve efficiency."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We present the 2.8 Å crystal structure of GTP-bound L129F mutant Rab7 which reveals normal conformations of the effector binding regions and catalytic site, but an alteration to the nucleotide binding pocket that is predicted to alter GTP binding.

Human Molecular Genetics

Whether replacing or adding windows constitutes an alteration to the building's exterior remains to be determined.

The New York Times

"No dramatist had dared to make such an alteration to the figure of the ghost in thousands of years.

The Guardian - Books

"There is an alteration to the surface when it interacts with its environment, whether it's soil or water".

The New York Times - Arts

It seems that ocean acidification may be causing just such an alteration to the way that sea life smells the oceans.

The Guardian

Increased fibre diameter, and possibly an alteration to the fibre sectional shape, are the most promising changes.

Acta Materialia

In August 2013 a senior manager at Google reversed an alteration to Android that would have given users the ability to revoke permissions – a move that was criticised by the online pressure group Electronic Frontier Foundation.

The Guardian - Tech

And given an alteration to his route, he still had three miles remaining after crossing the traditional finish line in four and a half hours.

The New York Times - Sports

John F. Kennedy invited the first inaugural poet, Mr. Frost, to read "The Gift Outright" at his inauguration suggesting an alteration to the last line.

The New York Times

Engineers and planners designing an alteration to or replacement for the Tappan Zee Bridge to ease congestion at one of the region's most notorious bottlenecks have narrowed 156optionss down to 15.

The New York Times

Although Luft said he ran the wrong route, he made an alteration to find open space in the middle of the field and gathered in the touchdown pass from Winters.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an alteration to", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being altered and why. Provide specific details about the change for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "an alteration to" when a complete replacement or overhaul is intended. "Alteration" suggests a modification, not a total substitution. In cases of complete replacement, prefer terms such as "a replacement of" or "a completely new".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an alteration to" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used as a noun modifier or as part of a larger predicate. It indicates that a change or modification has been made to something. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

39%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an alteration to" is a versatile prepositional phrase signifying a change or modification. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse fields, including science, news media, and business. The phrase functions to describe adjustments, revisions, or updates made to various entities. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity regarding the nature and scope of the alteration. While "an alteration to" suggests a modification, it is important to avoid using it in the place of terms that refer to a complete replacement or overhaul of something.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a modification to

Replaces "alteration" with "modification", implying a change or adjustment.

a change to

Uses the more general term "change" instead of "alteration", indicating a shift or transformation.

an adjustment to

Suggests a fine-tuning or calibration rather than a complete overhaul.

a revision to

Implies a formal review and correction process.

an amendment to

Specifically refers to a formal addition or change, often in legal or official documents.

a transformation of

Indicates a more significant and fundamental change.

a reworking of

Suggests a substantial revision or redesign.

a variation on

Implies a slight difference from a standard form or type.

an adaptation for

Highlights the act of modifying something to suit a new purpose or condition.

a shift in

Indicates a change in direction, focus, or approach.

FAQs

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

You can use "an alteration to" to describe a change made to something. For example, "The company made "an alteration to" its original marketing plan".

What are some alternatives to saying "an alteration to"?

Alternatives include "a modification to", "a change to", or "an adjustment to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "an alteration to" and "a change to"?

While similar, "an alteration to" often implies a more specific or deliberate modification, while "a change to" is a more general term. The choice depends on the context.

When is it not appropriate to use "an alteration to"?

It's less appropriate to use "an alteration to" when referring to something being completely replaced rather than modified. In such cases, use phrases like "a replacement of" or "a completely new".