modificar
“modificar” means “to modify” in Spanish (making partial changes to something).
to modify
Also: to alter, to tweak
📝 In Action
Necesitamos modificar el contrato antes de firmar.
B1We need to modify the contract before signing.
El arquitecto modificó los planos para incluir un balcón.
B2The architect altered the plans to include a balcony.
He modificado mi dieta para tener más energía.
B2I have adjusted my diet to have more energy.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: modificar
Question 1 of 3
How do you say 'I modified' in the past (completed action)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'modificare', which combines 'modus' (measure) and 'facere' (to make). Literally, it meant 'to make to a measure' or 'to set limits'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'cambiar' and 'modificar'?
'Cambiar' is a general word for 'change'. 'Modificar' is more specific; it implies you are keeping the original thing but changing parts of it.
Is 'modificar' irregular?
It is mostly regular, but it has a spelling change in the past (yo modifiqué) and in all forms of the present subjunctive (yo modifique, tú modifiques, etc.) to keep the pronunciation correct.
Can I use 'modificar' for behavior?
Yes! 'Modificar la conducta' is a very common professional phrase used in psychology and education.