Difference between modify and alter

[Samira]

Synonym Search, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #106 "Synonyms for change and shift", question 3

I've lost a lot of weight for the last couple of months and most of my clothes need to be ..........

(a) altered
(b) modified
(c) shifted
(d) exchanged

Synonym Search, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #106 "Synonyms for change and shift", answer 3

I've lost a lot of weight for the last couple of months and most of my clothes need to be altered.

Correct answer: (a) altered

Your answer was: incorrect
I've lost a lot of weight for the last couple of months and most of my clothes need to be modified.
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hi, I want to know, what is the difference of "modify" and "alter"?

Thanks a lot

Samira

[Alan]

Hi Samira,

Alter suggests change as in this sentence the clothes have to be made a different size.

Modify also gives the idea of change but usually in a technical sense as in modify a computer so that it can accept new programs.

Alan
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