sharply modify

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sharply modify" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a significant or abrupt change to something, often in a technical or analytical context. Example: "The new regulations will sharply modify the way we conduct our business operations."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Modern health care systems are characterized by rapid changes in the profile of providers including structures stop, transfer or begin activity, or sharply modify their activity over time (usually, but not necessarily, with an increase in volume – see Figure 1).

BMC Health Services Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

This bill, like its predecessors, will probably be sharply modified years from now after the fight that produced it is long forgotten.

The New York Times

This sharply modifies the confinement time's dependence on B suggesting that anharmonicities induced by geometric distortions play a significant role in determining the scaling law.

EPJ Techniques and Instrumentation

The historic development of this metropolis was sharply modified by neoliberal policies that were implemented during Pinochet's dictatorship and by the constitutional definition of a reduced Subsidiary State.

Cities

Glomus tumor is composed of a proliferation of sharply demarcated modified smooth muscle cells, which are often arranged around dilated staghorn vessels.

BioMed Research International

More than a quarter of Republicans rate their own party unfavorably, and although they largely agree on a need to change, they are divided sharply on whether the party should modify its stances or just its messaging.

Huffington Post

"We must modify.

The New York Times - Travel

Not modify your life.

The Guardian - Opinion

Genetically modified soy foods may modify you.

Huffington Post

To deal with this last point, Mr Asmal hit on a two-tier pricing policy: the first 25 litres per day, regarded as a reasonable minimum, were made very cheap, but beyond that the price rose sharply.Mr Kasrils has since modified this scheme to make the first 25 litres completely free.

The Economist

However, the sodium chloride DCMD test showed that the permeate conductivity of the virgin membrane was increased sharply whereas it was not changed for the modified membrane over the period of the experiment.

Journal of Membrane Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sharply modify" when you want to convey a clear and impactful alteration that is readily apparent. It is best suited for formal writing where precision is important.

Common error

Avoid using "sharply modify" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "significantly change" or "noticeably adjust" may be more appropriate for a less formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sharply modify" functions as an adverb-verb combination, where "sharply" intensifies the action of "modify". It describes the manner in which something is changed, emphasizing a significant or abrupt alteration. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

30%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sharply modify" denotes a significant alteration and, according to Ludwig, is grammatically sound. While correct, its usage is more common in formal contexts, such as science, news, and business, where precision is valued. It is not as common in informal conversations, where simpler alternatives like "greatly change" or "significantly change" might be preferable. Understanding its nuanced register and purpose ensures effective communication, avoiding overuse in inappropriate contexts. In summary, "sharply modify" is a valuable tool for precise expression but should be used judiciously, keeping audience and register in mind.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significantly alter

Emphasizes the importance or degree of the change.

markedly change

Highlights that the change is easily noticeable or distinct.

noticeably adjust

Indicates the change is easily perceived.

substantially revise

Suggests a considerable and thorough change.

drastically transform

Implies a radical and fundamental alteration.

severely adjust

Indicates a major change, possibly with negative implications.

considerably amend

Highlights the extent and scope of the modifications.

greatly reform

Indicates the change will improve the original subject or situation.

decisively influence

Emphasizes a change that leads to significant consequences.

profoundly reshape

Suggests the change has deep and far-reaching effects.

FAQs

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

You can use "sharply modify" to describe a significant or abrupt change. For example, "The new regulations will "sharply modify" the way we conduct our business operations".

What are some alternatives to "sharply modify"?

Alternatives include "significantly alter", "markedly change", or "noticeably adjust", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "sharply modify" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, "sharply modify" leans towards formal usage. In casual settings, consider using simpler phrases like "greatly change" or "significantly change".

What's the difference between "sharply modify" and "slightly modify"?

"Sharply modify" indicates a substantial and noticeable alteration, while "slightly modify" implies a minor or subtle adjustment. The choice depends on the degree of change you wish to emphasize.