Changing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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changing

[หˆสงeษชnสคษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

behavior

Make or become different.

Synonyms

adapt, alter, modify, transform.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
changing

Used generally when something is undergoing a process of becoming different.

  • The leaves are changing color in the fall
  • We're changing our plans for the weekend
alter

Used when making small or slight changes to something.

  • She had the dress altered for a better fit
  • They altered the document before signing it
modify

Used when making partial changes to something, often to improve it or correct it.

  • The car was modified to run on biofuel
  • The teacher modified the lesson plan to fit the students' needs
transform

Used when making a dramatic change in form, appearance, or character.

  • The old factory was transformed into a modern art gallery
  • His leadership transformed the company
adapt

Used when someone adjusts to new conditions or makes something suitable for a new use.

  • She found it hard to adapt to the new culture
  • The software was adapted for use in schools

Examples of usage

  • The city has changed beyond recognition in recent years.
  • She changed into a more confident person after the experience.
  • I decided to change my diet for a healthier lifestyle.
Context #2 | Verb

substitute

Take or use another instead of.

Synonyms

exchange, replace, substitute, switch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
changing

To describe the process of something becoming different over time.

  • The leaves are changing colors in the fall
  • His attitude toward work is changing
replace

To refer to the act of taking out something old or broken and putting in something new or better.

  • You need to replace the batteries in the remote
  • We should replace the old car with a newer model
switch

To refer to changing from one state, position, or thing to another, usually quickly or easily.

  • She wants to switch seats with him
  • Can we switch the TV channel?
exchange

To describe the act of giving one thing and receiving another in return, often of the same type.

  • They exchanged gifts during the holiday
  • We need to exchange contact information
substitute

To describe the act of using one thing in place of another, often temporarily or in specific contexts like cooking or sports.

  • You can substitute butter with margarine in this recipe
  • The coach decided to substitute a player in the second half

Examples of usage

  • I changed my regular coffee for a green tea.
  • He changed his mind about going out tonight.
Context #3 | Noun

money

The money given in exchange for the same amount in a smaller denomination.

Synonyms

coins, loose change, small bills.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
changing

refers to the action of becoming different or making something different over time.

  • The weather is constantly changing during this season.
  • She is changing her career path after ten years in the same job.
coins

refers to small pieces of metal money.

  • He always carries a few coins in his pocket.
  • You need some coins to use the vending machine.
small bills

refers to paper money of lower denominations.

  • The cashier asked if I had any small bills.
  • It's always good to carry some small bills for tips.
loose change

refers to coins that are not organized or stored properly, often found in pockets or bags.

  • She found some loose change under the couch.
  • You can use the loose change in your car for parking meters.

Examples of usage

  • I need to get change for a twenty-dollar bill.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, change is a fundamental concept as it relates to motion, energy transfer, and the nature of matter.
  • Biological change, or evolution, explains how species adapt over time through genetic variation.
  • Psychological studies show that our ability to adapt to change can significantly affect our mental health and resilience.

Literature

  • In literature, themes of change often represent character growth or societal shifts, such as in novels like 'A Tale of Two Cities'.
  • Many poets express change as a natural cycle of life, exploring loss and renewal, as seen in works by poets like Robert Frost.
  • In folklore, transformative tales often illustrate moral lessons, emphasizing that change can lead to new beginnings.

Pop Culture

  • Popular songs like 'Changes' by David Bowie reflect the universal experience of transformation and identity.
  • Movies often explore themes of change, as characters undergo significant transformations, such as in 'The Lion King' when Simba returns as an adult.
  • Television shows like 'Friends' portray characters evolving over time, emphasizing personal growth and the impact of relationships.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like Heraclitus famously stated, 'You cannot step into the same river twice,' highlighting the inevitability of change.
  • Existentialist thought often delves into how personal identity is continuously redefined through life experiences.
  • Change is seen as a crucial element of the human experience, prompting questions about the nature of reality and self.

Origin of 'changing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'changing' comes from the Old French 'changier', which means to exchange or give up.
  • It is rooted in the Latin word 'cambiare', which means to exchange or barter, highlighting the idea of transformation.
  • The definition has evolved over centuries, reflecting different aspects of growth and development in language.

The word 'changing' originates from the Middle English word 'chaungen', which came from the Old French 'changer', ultimately derived from the Latin 'cambiare' meaning 'to exchange'. The concept of change has been a fundamental aspect of human existence, reflecting the constant evolution and adaptation in various aspects of life.


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

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,817, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.