it modifies

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it modifies" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing grammar or language, specifically to indicate that a word or phrase changes or clarifies the meaning of another word or phrase. Example: "In the sentence 'The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog,' the adjective 'quick' modifies the noun 'fox.'"

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The group plans to continue to release updates as it modifies its library internally.

TechCrunch

The group plans to continue to release updates as it modifies its library internally.

TechCrunch

However, unlike ubiquitin it does not mark the protein for degradation, instead it modifies its substrate's interaction with partner proteins.

Cellular Microbiology

Azimuth now works with a mix of modern ébauches, or half-finished blank movements, and assembled movements from Swiss watch makers which it modifies to its own designs.

The New York Times

But when the compound modifier comes after the thing it modifies, the rules are more confusing, so I recheck from time to time.

Los Angeles Times

China would be left on the sidelines, along with its mercantilist model of international commerce — unless and until it modifies that approach.

The Washington Post

It modifies the electronic structure of the metal surface by changing its electronic environment.

International Journal of Industrial Chemistry

Put it near the verb it modifies.

The New York Times

It modifies the sinusoidal analytical model for soil temperature calculation.

Energy and Buildings

In general, it should be as close as possible to what it modifies, and it usually works best immediately in front of what it modifies.

The New York Times - Magazine

Instead it modifies these sounds, treating the world like one big prepared piano.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, place "it modifies" close to both the subject ('it') and the object that is being modified. This proximity helps readers quickly understand the relationship.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by ensuring that the phrase following "it modifies" clearly and directly relates to the subject. Misplaced modifiers can unintentionally alter the sentence's meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it modifies" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "it" serves as the subject and "modifies" is the verb. This structure indicates that something (represented by "it") is causing a change or alteration to something else. Ludwig provides multiple examples illustrating this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

32%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it modifies" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase that indicates how something changes or affects another entity. As Ludwig confirms, its grammatical structure is correct, and its meaning is clear across various contexts. Predominantly found in science, news media, and academic writing, the phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for professional communication. When using "it modifies", ensure the pronoun "it" has a clear antecedent and that the phrase is positioned to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it alters

Focuses on the act of changing something, similar to modifying but can imply a more significant change.

it changes

A more general term for making something different, closely related to modifying.

it adjusts

Implies a slight change to improve accuracy or suitability.

it transforms

Suggests a complete change in form or appearance.

it influences

Indicates an effect on something without necessarily changing its fundamental nature.

it affects

Similar to influences, but may imply a stronger or more direct impact.

it shapes

Suggests a significant influence on the final form or outcome.

it impacts

Similar to affects, emphasizing the force or strength of the change.

it revises

Implies a deliberate change to correct or improve something.

it fine-tunes

Suggests making very small or precise adjustments.

FAQs

How can I use "it modifies" in a sentence?

Use "it modifies" to indicate that something changes or influences another thing. For example, "The new software "it modifies" the way data is processed".

What are some alternatives to "it modifies"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "it alters", "it changes", or "it affects", depending on the context and the degree of change you want to convey.

Is "it modifies" formal or informal?

"It modifies" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the writing.

How does "it modifies" differ from "it influences"?

"It modifies" implies a direct change to something, while "it influences" suggests an effect that may not necessarily result in a change. "It modifies" is more specific and indicates a transformation, whereas "it influences" suggests a less direct impact.