Modulating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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modulating

[ˈmɒdjʊleɪtɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

sound engineering

Modulating refers to the process of changing the frequency or amplitude of a signal in order to transmit information. It is a key technique used in radio and telecommunications to encode audio or data onto a carrier wave.

Synonyms

altering, changing, varying.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
modulating	Used in contexts involving adjustment and regulation, especially in technical or musical settings. The engineer was modulating the frequency to get better sound quality. She modulated her voice to match the mood of the room.
varying	Typically used when discussing differences and fluctuations, especially in measurements or amounts. The temperature has been varying a lot this week. She prepares meals varying the ingredients each time.
changing	General term for making something different, suitable for almost any situation where modifications are happening. She is changing her hairstyle for the summer. They are changing the schedule to accommodate everyone.
altering	Commonly used when making adjustments or modifications to something that already exists, often slightly. He was altering his suit to fit better. The document was altered to correct the errors.

Examples of usage

The radio station was modulating the signal to broadcast the news.
The modem modulates the digital data into analog signals for transmission.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

music

In music, modulating involves changing the key of a piece. It is a technique used to create tension, interest, and variety in a musical composition.

Synonyms

changing key, shifting tonality.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
modulating	Typically used in music to describe the process of changing from one key to another in a piece. It can also be used more generally to describe adjusting or regulating something. The composer spent hours modulating the key to maintain the emotional impact of the piece. She is good at modulating her voice to suit different situations.
changing key	This phrase is straightforward and best used when specifically referring to the act of moving from one musical key to another in a very clear and direct way. In the middle of the song, they are changing key from C major to A minor. Changing key can make a song feel fresh and exciting.
shifting tonality	Typically used in a musical context, this phrase describes changing the tonal center or key. It's often employed in a more artistic or descriptive discussion about music. The artist is known for shifting tonality unexpectedly in their compositions. The sudden shifting tonality in the symphony was breathtaking.

Word

Description / Examples

modulating

Typically used in music to describe the process of changing from one key to another in a piece. It can also be used more generally to describe adjusting or regulating something.

The composer spent hours modulating the key to maintain the emotional impact of the piece.
She is good at modulating her voice to suit different situations.

changing key

This phrase is straightforward and best used when specifically referring to the act of moving from one musical key to another in a very clear and direct way.

In the middle of the song, they are changing key from C major to A minor.
Changing key can make a song feel fresh and exciting.

shifting tonality

Typically used in a musical context, this phrase describes changing the tonal center or key. It's often employed in a more artistic or descriptive discussion about music.

The artist is known for shifting tonality unexpectedly in their compositions.
The sudden shifting tonality in the symphony was breathtaking.

Examples of usage

The song modulates from C major to G major in the bridge.
The symphony modulates to a minor key for the dramatic finale.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

biology

In biology, modulating can refer to the regulation or control of a physiological process, such as the modulation of gene expression.

Synonyms

adjusting, controlling, regulating.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
modulating	Refers to changing or varying something in a gradual manner, often used in scientific, technical, or musical contexts. The engineer is modulating the frequency to achieve better signal quality She modulated her voice to convey different emotions
regulating	Indicates enforcing rules or standards, often used in official, legal, or institutional contexts. The government is regulating the emissions to protect the environment The school regulates the dress code strictly
controlling	Implies having power over something or someone, often used in management, organizational, or emotional contexts. It can have a negative connotation when referring to someone who is too domineering. She is controlling the project to ensure it stays on track He has difficulty controlling his temper
adjusting	Typically used when making small changes to correct or improve something. Commonly used in everyday situations and settings. He is adjusting the chair to make it more comfortable She adjusted her schedule to fit the meeting

Examples of usage

The hormone modulates the activity of the immune system.
Protein X modulates the growth of cells in the body.

Translations

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

Origin of 'modulating'

The word 'modulating' is derived from the Latin word 'modulatus', past participle of 'modulare' meaning 'to regulate, measure, or melodically divide'. The term originated in the 16th century and has since been widely used in various fields such as music, engineering, and biology.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,684, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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19681 woo
19682 habitable
19683 knack
19684 modulating
19685 minstrel
19686 graver
19687 worsen
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