modified

Everyday

1. Changed a little, usually to make it better or to suit a new purpose. tree →
2. Genetically modified (GM): having its genes changed by scientists. tree →
3. (grammar) A word is modified when another word describes or limits it, as an adjective does a noun. tree →

In the lessons

In design and technology, a modified car or toy has been changed. In science, genetically modified crops are a debated topic. In English grammar, adjectives and adverbs are modifiers. In maths, a modified rule or shape is a changed one. Phrases: slightly modified, genetically modified, modified version.

Examples

• The scientists modified the design so the bridge was stronger. tree →
• This is a modified version of the game with easier levels. tree →
• Some crops are genetically modified to resist insects. tree →
• We modified our paper plane and it flew twice as far. tree →
• In the phrase red apple, the noun apple is modified by red. tree →
• The rules were modified after the accident. tree →

Note

Past form of modify: y changes to ie in modifies and modified. Noun: modification. Modified usually means a small or partial change, not a complete replacement.