Amend Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ“
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amend

[ษ™หˆmษ›nd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

legal

Make minor changes in order to make something fairer or more accurate.

Synonyms

alter, change, modify, revise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
amend

Usually used when referring to making minor changes to a document, such as laws, contracts, or plans, with the intention of improving it.

  • The committee voted to amend the constitution
  • She had to amend her proposal before submission
modify

Often used in technical or formal contexts to describe making changes to something to improve it or make it more suitable.

  • He had to modify the engine to enhance performance
  • The plans were modified to comply with new regulations
revise

Typically used in academic or professional settings to indicate that something, such as a piece of writing or a plan, is being reviewed and improved.

  • She had to revise her thesis after receiving feedback
  • The report was revised to reflect the latest data
alter

Used in situations where something is being changed from its original state. It often implies more significant changes than 'amend'.

  • He decided to alter his lifestyle after the health scare
  • The dress was too long, so I had it altered
change

A general term for making something different in any way. It does not specify the extent or nature of the modification.

  • She decided to change her hair color
  • We need to change the meeting time

Examples of usage

  • The contract was amended to include the new terms.
  • She proposed to amend the law to better protect consumers.
  • We need to amend the errors in the document before submitting it.
Context #2 | Verb

formal

Change or revise a piece of text or legislation.

Synonyms

alter, modify, revise, update.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
amend

Used mainly in formal settings, particularly in the context of laws, policies, or documents. It implies a change for the better or to correct something.

  • The constitution was amended to include new rights.
  • We need to amend the policy to address recent issues.
revise

Primarily used in academic or professional settings to indicate reviewing and making improvements or corrections to documents, plans, or theories.

  • She needed to revise her essay before submitting it.
  • The project plan was revised to meet the new deadline.
modify

Commonly used in technical or scientific contexts. It implies making partial or minor changes to improve or adjust something.

  • The software was modified to run more efficiently.
  • He modified the design to better suit the clientโ€™s needs.
alter

Used in a wide range of contexts to indicate any kind of change. It often refers to physical or practical changes rather than abstract ones.

  • She decided to alter her dress for the event.
  • The layout of the office was altered to improve workflow.
update

Commonly used in the context of bringing information, software, or systems up to date. It implies adding new information or making current.

  • You should update your software to the latest version.
  • The database is regularly updated with new information.

Examples of usage

  • The proposal was amended to address the concerns raised by the committee.
  • The constitution was amended to grant equal rights to all citizens.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal terms, to amend often refers to changes made to laws, such as introducing new clauses or revising existing ones.
  • The 27 amendments to the U.S. Constitution represent significant legal adjustments made to enhance governance and protect rights.

Literature

  • The phrase 'to amend one's ways' appears in many literary works, symbolizing personal growth and change.
  • Famous novels often include characters who seek to amend their mistakes, showcasing themes of redemption and personal development.

Psychology

  • Amending behaviors is an important concept in therapy, encouraging individuals to change harmful habits.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy often focuses on helping people amend negative thought patterns for healthier minds.

Culture

  • In various cultures, ceremonies such as apologies and reconciliations are ways to amend relationships and restore harmony.
  • The act of amending can also refer to social movements that aim to update cultural norms for greater inclusivity and justice.

Origin of 'amend'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'amend' comes from the Latin 'emendare', which means to correct or to free from error.
  • Originally, it was used in medieval English texts to describe improving or correcting laws and documents.

The word 'amend' originated from the Latin word 'emendare', which means 'to free from fault or error'. The term first appeared in English in the 14th century, primarily used in legal and legislative contexts to refer to making changes or corrections to documents or laws in order to improve them.


See also: amendable, amended, amending, amendment, amendments, amends.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,377, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.