modify behavior

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modify behavior" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in contexts where you are discussing changes or adjustments to someone's actions or conduct. Example: "The training program is designed to help participants modify their behavior to improve workplace interactions."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Understanding how genes are regulated within neural networks to produce and modify behavior is a major goal in neuroscience and behavioral genetics.

BMC Genomics

A recent study observed behavioral effects of sertraline (a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor used to modify behavior in humans) in fathead minnows exposed to water concentrations of 2.8 28.1 μg/L.

Environmental Science & Technology

We should be using our regulations to modify behavior, not as a budget balancer".

The New York Times

The human brain, too, has neuropeptides that set mood and modify behavior.

The New York Times - Science

"These pricing mechanisms try to modify behavior of people who can't afford to do what it is we want them to do," he said.

The New York Times

But getting people to modify behavior in small, positive ways has proven effective in spurring bigger lifestyle changes.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Global efforts divesting from tobacco stocks, have not ended the production or sale of tobacco products, but have compelled the producing companies to significantly modify behaviors -- and they've helped to delegitimize smoking.

Huffington Post

The experts could: approve the proposed list; add new behaviors; or modify behaviors.

BMC Health Services Research

Indeed, research on operant conditioning [ 10- 12] has shown that incentives can effectively shape and modify behaviors.

BMC Medical Education

Even a negative experience such as suffering from a STI in the past doesn't necessarily modify behaviors.

BMC Infectious Diseases

"My job is to try and prevent human disease by modifying behavior and killing mosquitoes.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing behavior modification, be specific about the desired changes. Clearly state what actions need to be adjusted to achieve the intended outcome.

Common error

Avoid vague statements about "modifying behavior" without specifying the target actions. Instead of saying "We need to modify behavior", be precise: "We need to modify spending habits".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modify behavior" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the act of changing or altering someone's actions or conduct. As Ludwig AI points out, it describes a deliberate effort to adjust behavior, often to achieve a desired outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

53%

News & Media

43%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "modify behavior" is a grammatically correct and versatile phrase used to describe the process of changing actions or conduct. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts. It's particularly common in scientific and news-related domains. While alternatives like "change behavior" or "adjust behavior" exist, "modify behavior" maintains a slightly more formal tone. When using this phrase, specificity is key; avoid vague statements and clearly define the target actions you intend to change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

change behavior

This is a simpler and more direct alternative, using a more common verb.

alter behavior

This alternative uses a synonym for "modify", maintaining a similar level of formality.

adjust behavior

This suggests a more subtle change or correction.

adapt behavior

This implies changing behavior to suit a new or specific situation.

reshape behavior

This suggests a more significant or fundamental change.

influence behavior

This focuses on affecting behavior, rather than directly changing it.

regulate behavior

This implies controlling or managing behavior through rules or guidelines.

correct behavior

This focuses on fixing undesirable behavior.

manage behavior

This suggests handling or dealing with behavior, often in a specific setting.

guide behavior

This suggests directing or leading behavior, often through advice or instruction.

FAQs

How can I use "modify behavior" in a sentence?

You can use "modify behavior" to describe the process of changing someone's actions. For example, "The goal of the program is to help people "modify behavior" related to unhealthy eating habits".

What's a simple synonym for "modify behavior"?

A simpler synonym is "change behavior". It conveys the same basic meaning in a more straightforward way.

In what contexts is "modify behavior" commonly used?

"Modify behavior" is frequently used in scientific, medical, and psychological contexts, as well as in discussions about public policy and personal development.

How does "modify behavior" differ from "control behavior"?

"Modify behavior" suggests a change or adjustment, while "control behavior" implies a more direct and forceful management or suppression of actions.