do not modify

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do not modify" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it in instructions, guidelines, or warnings where modification is prohibited. Example: "Please do not modify the document without permission." Alternative expressions include "do not alter" and "do not change."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Do not modify Makefile, except to add source files.

University of California, Berkeley

Do not modify or move any permanent shielding at CHESS.

Cornell University

These instructions do not modify memory, only registers.

Stanford University

Security assurance proofs are valid as long as software engineers do not modify the generated code.

Electronic Notes in Theoretical Computer Science

Do not modify the API for methods that the autograder uses.

University of California, Berkeley

Do not modify any classes in the nachos.machine package, the nachos.ag package, or the nachos.security package.

University of California, Berkeley

Do not tamper with any safety device on a cylinder, and do not modify or lubricate any cylinder valve.

Cornell University

No cheating: Do not modify the Jelly Bean Factory code, or your contest submission will be void.

Cornell University

The nanoscale Al crystals lead to some hardening of the glass, but do not modify the good ductility of the material.

Acta Materialia

It was found that the functionalization process and the inclusion of the vitamin on the pores do not modify the mesoporous structure of the starting material.

Journal of Controlled Release

The proposal includes the improvement of the exploitation of renewable energy sources through adequate systems, which do not modify the visual perception of the pavilions.

Energy Procedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing users on software or hardware, use "do not modify" to prevent unintended errors or system malfunctions.

Common error

Avoid using "do not modify" when minor adjustments are acceptable. Be specific about what aspects should not be altered to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do not modify" functions as an imperative, issuing a direct command or instruction. Ludwig examples show it frequently used in contexts where maintaining the original state of something is critical.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

Academia

28%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

News & Media

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "do not modify" is a clear, direct imperative used to prohibit changes or alterations. According to Ludwig, it appears frequently in academic, scientific, and general instructional contexts. While grammatically straightforward, it's important to consider the specific context to ensure the phrase's clarity and prevent overly broad application. Alternatives like "refrain from altering" or "do not tamper with" offer nuanced ways to convey a similar message, but Ludwig AI confirms the general validity and versatility of "do not modify".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

do not alter

A direct synonym, but it can sound slightly more formal or emphatic than the original phrase.

refrain from altering

This phrase emphasizes restraint and conscious avoidance of making changes.

avoid changing

This suggests preventing modifications to maintain the original state.

leave untouched

This implies maintaining something in its current state without any intervention.

do not adjust

Specifically prohibits adjustments or fine-tuning.

keep as is

This phrase suggests preserving the current condition without changes.

do not tamper with

Warns against interfering in a way that could damage or compromise something.

maintain original state

Focuses on preserving the initial condition without allowing any modifications.

preserve as is

Implies an effort to protect something in its current form.

do not interfere with

Broader, advising against any kind of intervention that could disrupt or alter something.

FAQs

How can I use "do not modify" in a sentence?

You can use "do not modify" to issue a direct instruction against changing something. For example, "Do not modify this file without prior authorization".

What's a formal alternative to "do not modify"?

A more formal alternative is "refrain from altering". It's suitable for official documents or professional settings.

When is it appropriate to use "do not tamper with" instead of "do not modify"?

"Do not tamper with" is best used when there's a risk of damage or unauthorized access, like "Do not tamper with the equipment".

Is "do not change" the same as "do not modify"?

While similar, "do not change" is more general. "Do not modify" implies more specific alterations, whereas "do not change" can refer to a broader range of alterations.