Altered

In its broadest sense, 'altered' describes something that has been changed or modified, often from its original state. This change can be physical, emotional, mental, or conceptual, affecting the form, characteristics, or function of the subject. The degree of alteration can vary widely, ranging from minor adjustments to radical transformations. Often, the implication is that the change is intentional, though the outcome may be unforeseen. The impact of being altered can be positive, negative, or neutral depending on the context and nature of the change. The essence of being altered is a departure from a prior state.

Altered meaning with examples

• The artist drastically altered the painting's composition, adding vibrant colors and abstract shapes to create a more modern feel. This transformation fundamentally shifted the artwork's appeal, moving away from its previous, realistic depiction. The altered version provoked a strong reaction, sparking debate among art critics about artistic license.
• After years of physical therapy and medication, the patient's medication was altered. The doctor had to adjust the dosage to reduce side effects and improve effectiveness. The patient's lifestyle and health has been dramatically altered over time.
• The programmer altered the website's code to enhance its security features, preventing potential cyberattacks. The small modification, not obvious to end users, significantly improved the platform's robustness and user experience, making the system more accessible. This also altered the speed of the site loading.
• The company's marketing strategy was altered in response to changing consumer preferences. It involved shifting the messaging, introducing new products, and changing advertising. This shift drastically altered their financial results as customers now were attracted to the new approach.