changes the situation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "changes the situation" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing how an action or event alters the current circumstances or context. Example: "The new policy changes the situation for employees, providing them with more flexibility in their work hours."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

"Trump changes the situation from a NATO perspective," General Shirreff said.

The New Yorker

I don't think it changes the situation for us at all".

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Churchill responded, "I don't see how the point you're making actually changes the situation at all".

The New York Times

This changes the situation on the ground, but it makes the need for action to end the Syrian civil war much more pressing.

The Guardian - Opinion

Though the bond markets have rewarded the new Italian prime minister, Mario Monti, for his ability to pass a program of economic changes, the situation in the euro zone as a whole remains fragile.

The New York Times

But neither of these contentions changes the situation, which is that online readers have, for years now, been reaping the benefits of work that only exists because of print subscriptions, and that as print newspapers disappear, so too will much of that work, unless something dramatic changes.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

What might change the situation?

The New York Times

Change the situation.

The Guardian

We must fundamentally change the situation".

The New York Times

How has that changed the situation?

The New Yorker

It could have changed the situation.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "changes the situation", ensure that the subject performing the action is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The new evidence changes the situation" is clearer than "It changes the situation."

Common error

Avoid using "changes the situation" as a generic filler. Instead, specify how the situation changes and what the new state is. For example, instead of saying "The announcement changes the situation", clarify with "The announcement introduces uncertainty into the project timeline."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "changes the situation" functions as a verb phrase, typically acting as the predicate of a sentence. It describes an action that alters the existing circumstances. Ludwig shows this phrase is used to express how something impacts the current conditions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

37%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "changes the situation" is a versatile and commonly used expression to indicate that something has altered the existing circumstances. As Ludwig highlights, it appears frequently in news, scientific articles, and general writing. While generally neutral, clarity is key; specify how the situation changes to avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like "alters the context" or "transforms the scenario" for more precise communication. Avoid using it as a generic placeholder, and ensure the subject performing the action is clearly identified.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

alters the context

This alternative emphasizes a shift in the surrounding circumstances or background.

modifies the circumstances

This alternative highlights a modification or adjustment to the existing conditions.

transforms the scenario

This alternative suggests a more significant and complete change in the overall picture.

redefines the landscape

This alternative implies a fundamental shift in the prevailing conditions, often in a metaphorical sense.

impacts the state of affairs

This alternative focuses on the effect on the current condition or circumstances.

influences the dynamic

This alternative emphasizes the effect on the interactions and forces at play.

shapes the reality

This alternative suggests a formative impact on the actual state of things.

affects the position

This alternative highlights the influence on one's stance or location, either literally or figuratively.

adjusts the outlook

This alternative concentrates on altering the perspective or anticipation of what is to come.

recasts the circumstances

This alternative conveys a reinterpretation or presentation of the existing conditions.

FAQs

How can I use "changes the situation" in a sentence?

You can use "changes the situation" to describe how an event, action, or piece of information alters the current circumstances. For example: "The unexpected rainfall "changes the situation", making outdoor events impossible."

What are some alternatives to "changes the situation"?

Alternatives include "alters the context", "modifies the circumstances", or "transforms the scenario", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "change the situation" or "changes the situation"?

The correct form depends on the subject of your sentence. Use "change the situation" with plural subjects or "I/you". Use "changes the situation" with singular subjects such as "he", "she", "it", or a singular noun. For example, "They can change the situation" vs. "The new policy changes the situation."

How does "changes the situation" differ from "improves the situation"?

"Changes the situation" is neutral, indicating an alteration without specifying whether it is positive or negative. "Improves the situation" indicates a positive change, implying that the new state is better than the previous one. For example, a new strategy could "changes the situation", but a successful strategy "improves the situation".