Difference Between Modify and Change

Modify vs Change

Modify and change are two verbs that are very commonly used in English language, and it is hard for a non native to differentiate between the two because of almost similar meanings. However, it is more of a difficulty when it comes to written language rather than spoken English. Modification may sometimes refer to betterment or upgrade, while change is more neutral in this respect. Let us see if there are any more significant changes between modify and change.

Modify

Modify is also change per se though the basic edifice remains the same and minor changes are effected to create alteration. In this sentence, it is evident that all three, change, alter, and modification refer to replacement, addition or subtraction in the existing configuration (when we are talking about a program or software. Modification is done in controls, behaviors, and even legislation to make it more suitable and effective. When it comes to modification of a law, the thing to remember is that the law is not repealed but only made better to reflect the aspirations of the people. If the existing law looks or seems tough or even draconian, demonstrations and sit-ins by the population are enough to make a government realize its mistake. This is sought to be rectified by making amendments in the law, to modify it to make it look more representative of the people of the country.

Change

If someone changes his name altogether, it is a change and not modification. On the other hand, if a person called Michael changes to Michal, he has only modified the spelling of his name according to numerology to have better luck. Similarly, if a family goes from a rented house in a locality to another locality, the word used is change, and they are said to have changed their address. Same is the case with phone numbers as people keep on changing their operators getting their phone numbers changed. It is clear that in these circumstances, change is the word that is more suitable.

Change is also a word that is used to refer to smaller coins or notes of smaller denominations that people seek when they need them, but have notes of large denominations. Change is also the word used to refer to behavioral changes that are affected using different techniques or stimulants.

What is the difference between Modify and Change?

• Both modify and change are almost synonyms though both cannot be used in every situation.

• Modify comes from modification that refers to small changes made in an existing condition, law or program instead of repealing something and bringing in something new altogether.

• Modifying legislation is introducing small changes to make it more acceptable.

• Phone numbers, names, and addresses get changed and not modified.