modify the language

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "modify the language" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing changes or adjustments to the wording or phrasing of a text or speech. Example: "In order to make the document more accessible, we need to modify the language to suit a broader audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

BEFORE writers modify the language, Ms. Agress said, they should master it.

The New York Times

amendment we propose would modify the language of section 307(a)..

Cornell University

But he added, "I'm willing to address any concerns about the political intelligence provision being too broad and modify the language as needed".

The New York Times

Language management, planning, and cultivation are actions taken by governments or other agencies or people with authority to modify the language choices made by those under their control.

Encyclopedia of Language & Linguistics

Files marked with "module" provide a module by the same name, files marked with "language module" modify the language and should be used as an initial import for other modules.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"I'm not against broad recognition of civil society organisations, but for women's rights organisations it's difficult to access funding at the best of times," said Lee Webster, head of policy at the NGO Womankind, who will be lobbying the UK delegation at the CSW to resist attempts to modify the language.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

He had to pick up another language, and he modified the language.

The New Yorker

The text remained the same until 1969 when the Senate Committee Print slightly modified the language to that which was adopted in 1976.

Stanford University

In addition, Wilson's draft modified the language of the Supremacy Clause adopted by the Convention, to ensure that national law would take precedence over inconsistent state laws.

Wikipedia

Importantly, they modified the language that required spending bills to originate in the House of Representatives and be flatly accepted or rejected, unmodified, by the Senate.

Wikipedia

CY polished and modified the language.

BMC Cancer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, "modify the language" to suit your audience's understanding, ensuring complex terms are simplified or explained.

Common error

Be cautious when you "modify the language" so much that the original meaning is lost or distorted. Aim for clarity without sacrificing accuracy or the author's intended message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "modify the language" functions as a verb phrase. It indicates the action of making changes or adjustments to the way something is expressed, whether in writing or speech. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

44%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "modify the language" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the act of making alterations to written or spoken communication to improve clarity, accuracy, or appropriateness. Ludwig AI underscores its valid usage across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and academic settings. While not exceedingly common, its use is consistent and purposeful. When using this phrase, consider the ethical implications of altering content and aim for clarity without sacrificing the original intent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

alter the wording

Focuses on changing the specific words used.

adjust the phrasing

Emphasizes tweaking the way something is expressed.

revise the text

Suggests a more comprehensive review and alteration.

amend the vocabulary

Highlights changing the specific words used in a text or speech.

recast the expression

Implies a complete transformation of how something is communicated.

tweak the wording

Suggests making minor adjustments to the text.

refine the language

Implies improving the clarity and precision of the language.

reshape the discourse

Indicates a more significant alteration of the overall communication.

adapt the terminology

Focuses on changing the specific terms used.

reword the statement

Suggests expressing the same idea using different words.

FAQs

How can I "modify the language" in a document for better readability?

To enhance readability, you can simplify complex sentences, replace jargon with common terms, and ensure the tone is appropriate for your target audience. Consider using tools that assess reading level to guide your modifications.

What is the difference between "alter the wording" and "modify the language"?

"Alter the wording" suggests changing specific words, while "modify the language" implies a more comprehensive adjustment of style, tone, and vocabulary.

When is it appropriate to "modify the language" of a legal document?

It's appropriate to "modify the language" of a legal document to improve clarity for non-legal professionals, ensure compliance with current regulations, or address ambiguities that could lead to misinterpretations. Always consult with a legal expert before making changes.

What are some ethical considerations when you "modify the language" of a quote?

When you "modify the language" of a quote, it's crucial to maintain the original intent and context. Any alterations should be clearly indicated to avoid misrepresenting the speaker's views and to ensure transparency.