make a few changes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make a few changes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of modifying or altering something, typically in a context where adjustments are needed. Example: "After reviewing the document, I realized I need to make a few changes before submitting it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mr. Kariamu plans to make a few changes in his drum-making routine.

The New York Times

We're going to make a few changes.' ".

The New York Times - Sports

So we'll make a few changes around the edges.

The New York Times

Actually, Mr. Bedford did make a few changes.

The New York Times

But wants to make a few changes in the script.

The New Yorker

I then make a few changes to the release schedule before sending over to our distributor.

Independent

She and Mr. Gach did make a few changes, they said, but both were happy with the outcome.

The New York Times

As the show graduated from the web, Heidecker admitted that they had to make a few changes to the format.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Ronald Koeman had promised beforehand to make a few changes but not too many, and in the event made six.

The Guardian - Sport

We would have to make a few changes in our own habits, but it would be worth it.

The New York Times

"I get to the end and then make a few changes, but it won't be an extensive rewrite.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make a few changes", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being modified and the reason for the modifications. This enhances clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "make a few changes" when the modifications are substantial or fundamental. This can downplay the extent of the work involved and mislead the audience about the scale of the adjustments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a few changes" functions primarily as a verb phrase. According to Ludwig, it is correct and usable in written English. Examples from Ludwig show it being used to describe modifications to a document, a routine, or a plan.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

23%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make a few changes" is a versatile and widely used phrase that indicates the intention to modify something slightly. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and suitable for various contexts. It is most commonly found in news and media, followed by wiki and scientific sources. The phrase functions as a verb phrase with a neutral register and serves to communicate adjustments or modifications. While the phrase is straightforward, it is important to be mindful of the extent of the changes; overstating or understating them can mislead your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a few modifications

Replaces "changes" with "modifications", implying alterations or adjustments.

make a few adjustments

Substitutes "changes" with "adjustments", focusing on adapting or fine-tuning something.

implement some adjustments

Replaces "make a few changes" with a more formal tone, emphasizing the act of putting adjustments into effect.

make minor alterations

Replaces "a few changes" with "minor alterations", emphasizing the small scale of the modifications.

tweak a few things

Uses "tweak" to suggest fine-tuning or making small adjustments, with a more casual tone.

make a couple of corrections

Emphasizes the act of correcting errors, differing slightly from general changes.

do some fine-tuning

Focuses specifically on making small, precise adjustments to optimize something.

apply slight revisions

Implies a more formal approach to making changes, particularly in written material.

make a handful of edits

Highlights the act of editing, which involves making specific changes to improve something.

revise selectively

Emphasizes making changes in a careful, discerning manner.

FAQs

How can I use "make a few changes" in a sentence?

You can use "make a few changes" to indicate minor adjustments or modifications. For example, "I need to "make a few changes" to the presentation before the meeting".

What's a more formal way to say "make a few changes"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "implement some adjustments" or "apply minor modifications".

What are some alternatives to "make a few changes" that emphasize fine-tuning?

If you want to emphasize fine-tuning, consider using phrases like "tweak a few things" or "do some fine-tuning".

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "make a few changes"?

It's inappropriate to use "make a few changes" when the modifications are substantial or fundamental. In such cases, using terms like "undertake major revisions" or "implement significant alterations" would be more accurate.