Definition of adjustnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb adjust contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of adjust are accommodate, adapt, conform, and reconcile. While all these words mean "to bring one thing into correspondence with another," adjust suggests bringing into a close and exact correspondence or harmony such as exists between parts of a mechanism.

adjusted the budget to allow for inflation

When would accommodate be a good substitute for adjust?

The synonyms accommodate and adjust are sometimes interchangeable, but accommodate may suggest yielding or compromising to effect a correspondence.

accommodated his political beliefs in order to win

In what contexts can adapt take the place of adjust?

In some situations, the words adapt and adjust are roughly equivalent. However, adapt implies a modification according to changing circumstances.

adapted themselves to the warmer climate

When could conform be used to replace adjust?

The words conform and adjust are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, conform applies to bringing into accordance with a pattern, example, or principle.

refused to conform to society's values

When is it sensible to use reconcile instead of adjust?

The meanings of reconcile and adjust largely overlap; however, reconcile implies the demonstration of the underlying compatibility of things that seem to be incompatible.

tried to reconcile what he said with what I knew

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of adjust Taste and adjust as needed; the anchovies, Worcestershire, and cheese provide substantial seasoning. — ABC News, 2 Oct. 2026 Warren senior defender Julio Diaz agrees that Sandoval has adjusted well. — Bobby Narang, Chicago Tribune, 2 Oct. 2026 Connecting frontline customer feedback directly to product and go-to-market teams is essential so that strategy can adjust to market demand when needed. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 2 Oct. 2026 Insects that react to petrichor will also have to adjust their behavior, Nielsen says. — Gregory Wakeman, Scientific American, 1 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for adjust
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adjust
Verb
  • In the kids space, Studiocanal is also adapting Dermot O’Leary’s Toto the Ninja Cat and Astrid Lindgren’s Pippi Longstocking with Heyday.
    — Max Goldbart, Deadline, 6 Oct. 2026
  • But that hands-on approach is what nonprofits are struggling to adapt to.
    — Sydney Lake, Fortune, 6 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • The pool has shallow areas for little ones to play in, and the Opium Spa offers treatments tailored to kids and teens.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Oct. 2026
  • Some include stool-sample testing and tailored eating plans sold as a way to recalibrate the gut, exactly the kind of individualized guidance people with chronic gut issues may be looking for.
    — Ashley Lynch, Sacbee.com, 6 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • In fact, all my attempts to conform to Apple’s requirements for the new Screen Time have taken a while to kick in.
    — Jennifer Pattison Tuohy, The Verge, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Rather than conforming to what others — especially her brothers — expect of her, Red Jacob urges Ellen to play to her own unique strengths.
    — Max Gao, HollywoodReporter, 5 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • Its compact design puts significant emphasis on accurate pointing without adding substantial mass.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 3 Oct. 2026
  • The fact is, surveillance of women's intimate health data puts them at risk.
    — Sparkle Rainey Tribune News Service, Arkansas Online, 3 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • That said, the vibe is definitely more refined and suited to couples and solo or business travelers.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Built in 2005 for the ATP World Tour Finals, the 15,000-seat tennis venue features a fragmented steel roof that opens and closes to suit indoor or outdoor play.
    — Kieron Marchese, Architectural Digest, 6 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Adjust.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adjust. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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