Amendment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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amendment
[ษหmษndmษnt ]
Definitions
law
An amendment is a change or addition to a legal document such as a constitution, law, or treaty.
Synonyms
alteration, modification, revision.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| amendment |
Used in legal or formal contexts, especially when making changes to documents, laws, or official statements.
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| modification |
Often used in technical, engineering, or scientific contexts to describe a change that improves or adjusts the original version of something.
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| revision |
Generally refers to changes made to written work, academic papers, or plans, often to improve the original content. It implies a review and adjustment process.
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| alteration |
Commonly used to describe changes made to clothing, buildings, or plans. It implies a change that could be small or large but generally retains the original purpose or function.
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Examples of usage
- The First Amendment to the US Constitution protects freedom of speech.
- They proposed an amendment to the bill to include new provisions.
- The amendment was ratified by the required number of states.
- She drafted an amendment to the contract to clarify the terms.
- The amendment was voted on and passed by the majority.
general
An amendment can also refer to a minor change or improvement made to a document, proposal, or plan.
Synonyms
adjustment, correction, improvement.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| amendment |
Utilize when referring to official changes or additions to documents, laws, or policies. Often used in legal or formal settings.
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| adjustment |
Suitable for minor changes or tweaks to make something better or to adapt to new conditions. Common in everyday situations or technical tasks.
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| correction |
Best used when fixing an error. It often implies that there was a mistake or problem that needed to be addressed.
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| improvement |
Used when something is made better or enhanced. This often implies a positive change or progress.
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Examples of usage
- They made an amendment to the project timeline to accommodate the delay.
- The committee suggested an amendment to the report for accuracy.
- Her speech needed an amendment to correct a factual error.
- He proposed an amendment to the design for better functionality.
- The amendment to the presentation enhanced its clarity.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from the Latin 'amendare', meaning 'to change for the better'.
- The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, known as the Bill of Rights, were ratified in 1791.
- Amendments can introduce new laws or change existing ones, reflecting society's evolving values.
Legal Significance
- In the context of law, an amendment can modify existing legislation to address new issues or correct errors.
- Amendments often require significant political debate and consensus to be passed, showcasing the importance of democracy.
- Not all proposals to amend laws succeed; sometimes, they can be rejected, demonstrating differing public opinions.
Cultural Impact
- The concept of amendments is not unique to the U.S.; many countries have similar processes for altering their constitutions.
- Some amendments can lead to cultural shifts, like the amendment granting women the right to vote in 1920, which changed American society vastly.
- Art and literature often reference amendments as a symbol of progress, reflecting societyโs desire to adapt and improve.
Education
- Teaching about amendments helps students understand how laws work and the significance of civic engagement.
- Amendments can be a powerful tool for social change, encouraging students to think critically about rights and responsibilities.
- Schools often use role-playing to simulate the amendment process, helping learners grasp the complexities of legislative change.
Political Science
- Political scientists study amendments to analyze how they affect governance and representation in society.
- Amendments can be contentious, often reflecting deeper societal divisions or conflicts over values and priorities.
- Activism frequently involves pushing for amendments to address social injustices, illustrating how citizens can influence government.
Origin of 'amendment'
The word 'amendment' originates from the Latin word 'emendare', meaning 'to correct' or 'to improve'. It entered the English language in the mid-14th century, originally used in the context of religious texts. Over time, the term evolved to encompass legal and general modifications or changes. The concept of amendments has been fundamental in shaping laws, constitutions, and various documents to adapt to evolving circumstances and ensure accuracy and relevance.
See also: amend, amendable, amended, amending, amendments, amends.