Definition of amendnext
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as in to reform
to change one's behavior or character for the better the judge had heard the defendant promise before that he would amend

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb amend differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of amend are correct, emend, rectify, redress, reform, remedy, and revise. While all these words mean "to make right what is wrong," amend, reform, revise imply an improving by making corrective changes, amend usually suggesting slight changes.

amend a law

When is it sensible to use correct instead of amend?

The words correct and amend are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, correct implies taking action to remove errors, faults, deviations, defects.

correct your spelling

When can emend be used instead of amend?

In some situations, the words emend and amend are roughly equivalent. However, emend specifically implies correction of a text or manuscript.

emend a text

When could rectify be used to replace amend?

While in some cases nearly identical to amend, rectify implies a more essential changing to make something right, just, or properly controlled or directed.

rectify a misguided policy

Where would redress be a reasonable alternative to amend?

The meanings of redress and amend largely overlap; however, redress implies making compensation or reparation for an unfairness, injustice, or imbalance.

redress past social injustices

When might reform be a better fit than amend?

Although the words reform and amend have much in common, reform implies drastic change.

plans to reform the court system

In what contexts can remedy take the place of amend?

While the synonyms remedy and amend are close in meaning, remedy implies removing or making harmless a cause of trouble, harm, or evil.

set out to remedy the evils of the world

When would revise be a good substitute for amend?

The words revise and amend can be used in similar contexts, but revise suggests a careful examination of something and the making of necessary changes.

revise the schedule

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of amend Diversity in the garden can help to amend soils, reduce pest pressures, suppress weeds and attract beneficial pollinators. Gemma Johnstone, The Spruce, 4 Feb. 2026 The spokesperson also said the company has amended its policies to deter host cancellations, decreasing such instances by 30 percent year over year since July 2023. Melanie Anzidei, New York Times, 4 Feb. 2026 After filing, the petition can be amended within two days of being sent and the city clerk has 20 days to complete a certificate recognizing the petition as legitimate. James Wilkins, The Orlando Sentinel, 4 Feb. 2026 The House Courts and Criminal Code Committee amended the bill to include language from House Bill 1141, which would make commingling of a committee with personal funds up to $50,000 a Class A misdemeanor. Alexandra Kukulka, Chicago Tribune, 4 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for amend
Recent Examples of Synonyms for amend
Verb
  • Maye’s numbers improved somewhat in the second half but not nearly enough to prevent the Seahawks from claiming a 29-13 victory.
    Chuck Schilken, Los Angeles Times, 9 Feb. 2026
  • However, the ability to choose an educational environment that truly fits our child has not only improved their academic performance, but also their overall happiness and outlook on life.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 9 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • This story has been updated with new information, to reframe parts of the story and to correct spelling errors.
    Steve Patterson, Florida Times-Union, 5 Feb. 2026
  • Problems arise when trees interfere with power lines, but professional pruning can correct this.
    Lee Wallender, The Spruce, 5 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Members of both the Senate and the House of Representatives have introduced a package of bills to address high housing costs and the shortage of affordable housing by reforming zoning and reducing federal barriers to construction.
    Samantha Delouya, CNN Money, 8 Feb. 2026
  • One approach is to reform outdated and cumbersome permitting processes so clean energy projects, such as for solar and wind power — along with more transmission lines — can be added to our grid more quickly.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 8 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • The research team aims to explore how the patches can enhance situational awareness and monitor exposure for military personnel in hazardous environments.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 6 Feb. 2026
  • Items such as candle sconces and decorative milagros add a touch of sparkle and enhance the mood.
    Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
    Ryan Mancini, The Hill, 14 Feb. 2026
  • Ellis was responsible for helping rewrite and redefine the landscape of American fashion and sportswear.
    Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 13 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • The study suggests that the way silk proteins organize mirrors how proteins behave in neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.
    Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 6 Feb. 2026
  • Choose the Right Dryer Settings The settings on your dryer can also impact how your sheets behave during the cycle.
    Anyssa Roberts, The Spruce, 5 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Here's what Brookfield did to cover 2026 budget After voters rejected the 2025 referendum meant to remedy the looming budget gap, Brookfield officials began discussions on how to come up with the money.
    Bridget Fogarty, jsonline.com, 6 Feb. 2026
  • Wilcox later sued Davis, saying she should have been given the opportunity to remedy her errors.
    Samuel O’Neal February 6, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Amend.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/amend. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.

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