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Altered or Alterated – Which is Correct?

Altered or Alterated – Which is Correct?

When it comes to a comparison between “altered” and “alterated,” the answer is quite simple: “altered” is the correct form. “Alterated” is not a word in standard English and is considered incorrect. While it may sound similar to “altered,” it does not exist in the English lexicon.

So, what exactly does “altered” mean? The verb “to alter” refers to making changes or modifications to something. It could involve tweaking, revising, or adjusting an object, a document, or even a piece of clothing. For example, if I were to alter a dress, it means I am making changes to its design or size. Similarly, if I were to alter a recipe, it means I am modifying the ingredients or cooking method.

To further clarify why “alterated” is incorrect, let’s examine the word formation process in English. When we want to create the past tense or the past participle form of a regular verb, such as “to alter,” we generally add -ed at the end. This is true for various other verbs, like “walked,” “talked,” and “played.” However, with irregular verbs, there are different rules and we cannot assume that adding -ed will work. In the case of “to alter,” it is a regular verb, so the past tense and past participle forms are “altered.”

Using incorrect forms like “alterated” may confuse your listener or reader, as it does not adhere to the standard rules of English grammar. Here are a few examples to illustrate the correct usage of “altered”:

1. The tailor altered the waistline of my pants to make them fit better.
2. After careful consideration, I decided to alter my travel plans and visit a different city.
3. She altered her hairstyle by cutting off several inches of her long locks.
4. The company altered the logo to give it a more modern and appealing look.
5. The scientist altered the DNA sequence in the lab to study the effects of genetic modifications.

Now that we are aware of the correct form, it is essential to ensure we use “altered” in our everyday conversations and writing. By doing so, we can maintain clarity and precision in our language usage. Knowing the right words to use not only improves our communication skills but also helps us avoid any potential misunderstandings.

In conclusion, “altered” is the correct form, while “alterated” is incorrect. By using “altered,” we follow the standard rules of verb conjugation in English and convey our message clearly. So, next time you’re tempted to say or write “alterated,” remember to use the correct form and ensure your English remains accurate and effective.