Changes Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’ฐ
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changes

[หˆtสƒeษชndส’ษชz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

money exchange

Changes refer to the money given back when a customer pays more than the amount due. It can also mean coins used as a form of currency. Changes can also be a small difference or alteration in something.

Synonyms

coins, difference, small change.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
changes

General modifications or alterations in various contexts such as plans, behaviors, or policies.

  • The company made several changes to its policies.
  • She noticed changes in his behavior.
coins

Physical currency in the form of metal discs. Used in transactions or collections.

  • I need some coins for the parking meter.
  • He collects rare coins.
small change

Coins or low-value currency. Also used to refer to a small or insignificant amount of money.

  • I have some small change in my pocket.
  • That's just small change compared to what we need.
difference

The state of being not the same. Used to compare two or more things.

  • Can you tell the difference between these two photos?
  • The difference in price is significant.

Examples of usage

  • The cashier gave me my changes after I paid for the groceries.
  • I need some changes to use the vending machine.
Context #2 | Noun

variety or alteration

Changes can also refer to the process of becoming different or the act of making something different. It can also mean the substitution of one thing for another.

Synonyms

adjustments, modifications, transformations.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
changes

Use in a general sense to indicate that something is becoming different or being updated. Can be used in both formal and informal settings.

  • The company is undergoing major changes this year.
  • I made some changes to the document.
modifications

Suitable for when specific parts are being altered rather than the whole. Often implies a more deliberate or planning process, and commonly used in technical, academic, or formal contexts.

  • The car went through several modifications to improve its speed.
  • The software update included various modifications to the existing features.
adjustments

Best for when small or fine-tuning alterations are being made to improve or adapt something. Often used in more detailed or technical situations.

  • The engineer made some adjustments to the machine to enhance its performance.
  • After feedback, I made a few adjustments to my presentation.
transformations

Used when describing a complete or dramatic change from one state or condition to another. Applicable in both personal growth contexts and major overhauls in organizations or systems.

  • The city has undergone a remarkable transformation in the last decade.
  • The caterpillarโ€™s transformation into a butterfly is fascinating.

Examples of usage

  • She decided to make changes in her lifestyle.
  • The changes in the weather were unexpected.
Context #3 | Verb

to make or become different

As a verb, changes mean to make or become different, alter, or modify something. It can also mean to replace with or exchange for another.

Synonyms

alter, modify, vary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
changes

Use 'changes' to refer to newly implemented differences. Suitable for both large and small adjustments in any context.

  • The company announced several changes to its vacation policy
  • She noticed some changes in her friend's behavior
alter

Use 'alter' when the focus is on making small or slight adjustments, often to improve or correct something. Commonly used in personal or technical contexts.

  • She decided to alter her dress for the party
  • The software developers had to alter the code to fix the bug
modify

Use 'modify' when referring to making partial changes to something, usually to improve or customize it. Often used in formal, scientific, or technical contexts.

  • He plans to modify his car to increase its performance
  • The fitness trainer modified the workout routine for beginners
vary

Use 'vary' to indicate that something differs in different situations or at different times. Suitable for highlighting diversity or range.

  • The prices of the products can vary depending on the market
  • Her mood tends to vary throughout the day

Examples of usage

  • She changes her hairstyle frequently.
  • He needs to change his attitude towards work.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word derives from the Latin 'cambiare', meaning to exchange or switch.
  • In the late Middle Ages, the concept of change was often linked to alchemy, where transforming materials was a central theme.
  • In many cultures, change has been associated with cycles of nature, like the seasons or the stages of life.

Science

  • In biology, organisms change over time through evolution, adapting to their environments.
  • In physics, the concept of change is crucial, such as in the study of motion, where objects can change position or speed.
  • Chemical changes involve transformations of substances, such as when iron rusts or when food is cooked.

Psychology

  • Psychologists suggest that humans are naturally resistant to change, often feeling discomfort when faced with new circumstances.
  • Therapy often focuses on helping individuals navigate personal changes, promoting growth and adaptation.
  • Studies indicate that embracing change can enhance resilience and lead to greater life satisfaction.

Literature

  • Many literary works explore transformation, such as Kafka's 'The Metamorphosis,' focusing on dramatic personal changes.
  • Shakespeareโ€™s characters often undergo significant changes, revealing deeper themes of identity and human nature.
  • Coming-of-age stories frequently highlight the process of change as characters grow and learn about themselves.

Pop Culture

  • The song 'Changes' by David Bowie is an anthem about personal transformation and the inevitability of change.
  • In movies, characters often undergo significant changes that are central to the plot, such as in 'The Lion King'.
  • Change is a common theme in superhero movies, where characters often have to embrace new identities or powers.

Origin of 'changes'

The word 'changes' originated from Middle English 'chaunge', which came from Old French 'change', ultimately derived from the Latin word 'cambiare' meaning 'to exchange'. The concept of 'change' has been a fundamental part of human society since ancient times, reflecting the dynamic nature of life and the constant need for adaptation and evolution.


See also: change, changeability, changeable, changeably, changed, changeover, changer, changing, exchange, interchange, unchangeability, unchangeable, unchangeably, unchanged, unchanging, unchangingly.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #367, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.