cosmetic alteration

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cosmetic alteration" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to changes made for appearance rather than function, often in contexts like beauty, fashion, or design. Example: "The cosmetic alteration of the building's facade improved its overall aesthetic appeal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

It is true: personnel in all four branches of the military and members of their immediate families can get face-lifts, nose jobs, breast enlargements, liposuction, or any other kind of elective cosmetic alteration, at taxpayer expense.

The New Yorker

A college student I spoke to defined the term for me as a person who has had so much cosmetic alteration that he or she "looks unnatural and arouses repulsion".

The New Yorker

We caution against their use for the cosmetic alteration of eye colour.

BMC Ophthalmology

We caution against their use for the cosmetic alteration of iris colour.

BMC Ophthalmology

Artificial iris anterior chamber implants were originally developed for therapeutic purposes but have been used recently for the cosmetic alteration of eye colour.

BMC Ophthalmology

Although the procedure allows for a function more akin to transtibial amputation due to retention of voluntary control of motion at the 'knee' level the significant cosmetic alteration implies potential future socio-psychiatric issues that might impact health and HRQL [ 31].

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

line (an acronym for Travel, Rumble, Explore), introduced in January, offered just a few cosmetic alterations to the Cabin A series.

The New York Times - Travel

In an idealized world in which we all have enough money, they asked, how many of us would choose cosmetic alterations?

The New York Times

Speaking n the BBC's Andrew Marr Show, Mr Hammond said that the British public would not be "fobbed off with a cosmetic alterations to the way the EU works".

Independent

When draft day arrived last summer, Orlando Magic General Manager Otis Smith did not use a scalpel for cosmetic alterations on a roster fresh off an appearance in the N.B.A. finals.

The New York Times - Sports

There are some cosmetic alterations: instead of the compact first-floor theater at Performance Space 122, where the first work, "Solo," was presented in September as part of the Crossing the Line festival, the new dance takes place in the larger upstairs theater.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cosmetic alteration" when referring to changes made primarily for aesthetic reasons, especially in contexts where precision is needed, such as in medical or design fields. For example: "The company focused on cosmetic alterations to improve the product's market appeal."

Common error

Avoid using "cosmetic alteration" when the changes also involve functional improvements. If a modification improves both appearance and function, describe it as a "design upgrade" or a "functional enhancement with cosmetic benefits" to accurately reflect the scope of the change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cosmetic alteration" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where 'cosmetic' acts as an adjective modifying 'alteration'. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is used to describe a change made primarily for aesthetic purposes.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cosmetic alteration" is a grammatically correct and usable English phrase that refers to changes made primarily for aesthetic reasons. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While not extremely common, it finds usage in news, scientific, and general contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the intent to modify appearance rather than function, and consider alternatives like "aesthetic modification" or "superficial adjustment" for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

aesthetic modification

Focuses on the artistic and beautiful nature of the change.

superficial adjustment

Highlights the surface-level nature of the change.

visual enhancement

Emphasizes the improvement of appearance.

decorative change

Highlights the ornamental aspect of the alteration.

surface refinement

Suggests a subtle and polished improvement.

stylistic modification

Focuses on changes related to style and design.

outer transformation

Implies a change to the external appearance.

beauty enhancement

Specifically refers to improvements in beauty.

image enhancement

Focuses on improving the overall image or impression.

appearance modification

A more formal and direct way of expressing the same concept.

FAQs

How can I appropriately use "cosmetic alteration" in a sentence?

Use "cosmetic alteration" to describe changes primarily made to improve appearance, not functionality. For instance, "The "cosmetic alteration" of the building's facade enhanced its visual appeal".

What are some alternatives to "cosmetic alteration"?

Alternatives include "aesthetic modification", "superficial adjustment", or "visual enhancement" depending on the specific context.

Is "cosmetic alteration" the same as "functional alteration"?

No, "cosmetic alteration" refers to changes made for appearance, while "functional alteration" refers to changes that improve the way something works. The terms are not interchangeable.

When is it appropriate to use "cosmetic alteration" over "cosmetic change"?

"Cosmetic alteration" is more formal and precise, often used in professional or technical contexts. "Cosmetic change" is more general and suitable for everyday conversation.