Change: English Vocabulary List

to cause something to change

"Do not alter the original document."

"The new medication may alter your sleep patterns so take it in the morning rather than at night."

to change the appearance, character, or nature of a person or object

"A caterpillar transforms into a butterfly."

"The caterpillar will transform into a beautiful butterfly after spending several weeks inside its chrysalis."

to change the form, purpose, character, etc. of something

"Convert the currency before traveling."

"The company plans to convert the old warehouse into modern loft apartments for young professionals seeking affordable housing in the city."

to develop from a simple form to a more complex or sophisticated one over an extended period

"Species evolve over long periods."

"The company's business model has evolved significantly over the past decade to keep up with changing market demands and new technologies."

to change something in a way that suits a new purpose or situation better

"We adapt quickly."

"Organisms must adapt to changing environmental conditions to survive and thrive in their habitats."

to cause something to develop into a particular state, condition, or quality

"This will render the task easy."

"The new software update will render the old system completely obsolete."

to vary or waver between two or more states or amounts

"Stock prices fluctuate throughout the trading day."

"The price of gasoline tends to fluctuate depending on global oil supply and demand throughout the year."

to make something less intense, forceful, or vigorous

"We must refine the plan."

"The experienced chef decided to refine the sauce by adding a subtle blend of exotic spices."

to move back and forth in a regular rhythm between two or more states, positions, or opinions

"The needle oscillates back and forth."

"The needle on the gauge began to oscillate rapidly back and forth indicating an unstable reading from the engine sensor."

to become much worse or more intense

"The fight will escalate."

"Without intervention, the minor disagreement between the neighbors began to escalate into a serious feud."

to break or lose structure and unity over time

"The paper disintegrated in water."

"The old piece of paper disintegrated into tiny fragments when I tried to pick it up because it was so old and brittle."

to make worse

"The situation will deteriorate quickly."

"Without proper maintenance, the structural integrity of the old building began to deteriorate rapidly."

characterized by continuous and often rapid change or progress

"The market is dynamic now."

"Her dynamic personality and innovative ideas made her an invaluable asset to the team."

prone to unexpected and sudden changes, usually gets worse or dangerous

"The situation is volatile."

"The stock market is volatile and prices can rise or fall dramatically within a single day so investing carries significant risk for inexperienced traders."

remaining unchanged and stable in degree, amount, or condition

"The temperature is constant."

"Despite the challenges, his constant dedication to the project never wavered, ensuring its eventual success."