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A2 verb 10 min de lecture

modificar

Exemples Notes et astuces modificar en 30 secondes
Explication modificar in your Level:
At the A1 level, learners are introduced to 'modificar' as a formal way to say 'to change' (cambiar). While beginners usually stick to 'cambiar' for everything, learning 'modificar' helps them understand basic instructions and digital interfaces. At this stage, the focus is on the present tense and the most common objects: 'modificar el nombre', 'modificar el color'. It is taught as a regular -ar verb, which helps reinforce basic conjugation patterns. Learners should recognize it in simple contexts like '¿Puedes modificar esto?' (Can you modify this?). The goal is recognition and very simple production in concrete situations. The word is often linked to technology, as many apps use it in their Spanish settings. Beginners are encouraged to see it as a 'cognate'—a word that looks like its English equivalent—making it an easy addition to their early vocabulary. We emphasize that it is a polite and clear way to ask for a small change without needing complex grammar.
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At the A2 level, students start using 'modificar' more intentionally to describe adjustments in their daily lives and work. This is the level where the distinction between 'cambiar' (total change) and 'modificar' (partial adjustment) begins to be taught. Students learn to use it in the preterite tense ('modifiqué') to describe past actions, and in the future to talk about upcoming plans. They also encounter it in more varied contexts, such as 'modificar una receta' (modify a recipe) or 'modificar un horario' (modify a schedule). Grammar instruction at this level focuses on the spelling change in the first person singular preterite (modifiqué) and the use of the verb with direct object pronouns (lo modifiqué). Learners are expected to be able to explain a simple reason for a modification, such as 'Modifiqué el plan porque llovía' (I modified the plan because it was raining). It becomes a tool for more precise communication in service situations, like at a hotel or a store.
At the B1 level, 'modificar' is used to express nuances in professional and academic settings. Students learn to use it in the subjunctive mood to express desires, doubts, or suggestions: 'Espero que modifiquen la ley' (I hope they modify the law). The vocabulary surrounding the verb expands to include abstract concepts like 'conducta' (behavior), 'presupuesto' (budget), and 'estrategia' (strategy). B1 learners are expected to use adverbs to describe the degree of modification, such as 'modificar ligeramente' or 'modificar sustancialmente'. They also start to recognize the noun form 'modificación' and how it functions in sentences. At this stage, the verb is used to engage in more complex discussions about social changes or project management. The focus shifts from simple actions to describing processes of improvement and adaptation. Students are encouraged to use 'modificar' to show a more sophisticated level of Spanish compared to the more basic 'cambiar'.
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At the B2 level, learners use 'modificar' with high frequency in formal writing and advanced conversation. They are expected to understand its use in legal and technical texts, where precision is paramount. This includes the use of the passive 'se' (se han modificado las condiciones) and more complex sentence structures. B2 students should be able to debate the merits of 'modificando' certain policies or behaviors and use the verb in all tenses, including the conditional and the perfect tenses. They also learn to distinguish 'modificar' from more specialized synonyms like 'enmendar' (to amend) or 'rectificar' (to rectify). The focus is on register—knowing that 'modificar' is the appropriate choice for a business email or a university essay. They explore the word's role in scientific contexts, such as 'modificar genéticamente' (to genetically modify). At this level, the word is a key part of their academic and professional toolkit, allowing them to describe complex adjustments with accuracy.
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At the C1 level, 'modificar' is part of a nuanced vocabulary that allows for precise expression in any context. C1 learners understand the subtle connotations of using 'modificar' versus 'alterar' or 'variar'. They can use the verb in complex rhetorical structures and are familiar with its use in literature and high-level journalism. They understand idiomatic expressions and the most formal applications of the word, such as in constitutional amendments or high-level diplomatic negotiations. Grammar is no longer an obstacle; instead, the focus is on style and impact. A C1 student might use 'modificar' to describe the evolution of a language or the shifting of cultural norms over time. They are also adept at using the word in the passive voice and other advanced constructions to maintain a formal tone. The word is used to describe not just change, but the philosophy of change and the intentionality behind it. They can analyze how 'modificar' functions as a transitive verb versus its less common reflexive uses.
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At the C2 level, the learner has a masterly command of 'modificar' and all its related forms. They can use it to articulate the finest shades of meaning in legal, technical, and philosophical discourses. A C2 speaker might use 'modificar' in a critique of a complex system, discussing how minor modifications at the micro-level can lead to massive shifts at the macro-level. They are sensitive to the historical development of the word and its etymological roots, using it with a sense of its full linguistic weight. At this level, the choice of 'modificar' over any other synonym is always deliberate and perfectly suited to the register and intent of the communication. They can effortlessly switch between the most technical applications of the word and its more metaphorical uses in creative writing. The word is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a precise instrument used to sculpt thought and argument with total clarity and sophistication. They can also provide deep insights into the cultural implications of 'modificación' in different Spanish-speaking societies.
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Exemples Notes et astuces

modificar en 30 secondes

  • Modificar means to change specific parts of something to improve or adapt it.
  • It is a regular -ar verb, but remember the 'qu' in the 'yo' preterite form (modifiqué).
  • Commonly used for documents, plans, schedules, and digital settings.
  • More formal than 'cambiar', suggesting a purposeful and precise adjustment.

The Spanish verb modificar is a versatile and essential term that every Spanish learner should master early in their journey. At its core, it means to change something in a partial way, typically to improve it, adapt it to a new situation, or correct an error. Unlike the general verb 'cambiar', which can imply a total replacement or a fundamental shift, modificar usually suggests that the essence of the object remains the same while specific details are adjusted. This distinction is crucial for achieving a natural-sounding fluency in Spanish. You will encounter this word in a vast array of contexts, ranging from everyday conversations about personal schedules to highly technical discussions in legal, scientific, or technological fields. When you modify something, you are performing an intentional act of refinement.

Daily Life Context
In daily life, we use this word when we need to tweak plans. If you have a dinner reservation and need to change the time from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM, you are 'modificando la reserva'. It is about adjustment rather than cancellation.
Professional & Technical Context
In a professional setting, 'modificar' is the standard term for editing documents, updating software code, or revising a contract. An architect might modify a blueprint based on a client's feedback, or a programmer might modify a function to increase efficiency.
Legal and Formal Context
Governments frequently 'modifican las leyes' (modify laws). This implies an amendment process where specific articles are updated without throwing out the entire legal framework. It carries a weight of formality and precision.

Es necesario modificar el diseño original para que sea más accesible para todos los usuarios.

Translation: It is necessary to modify the original design so that it is more accessible for all users.

Understanding the nuance of 'modificar' also involves recognizing its role in self-improvement and behavioral science. One might 'modificar su conducta' (modify their behavior) to achieve better health or social outcomes. This reflects the word's inherent link to progress and adaptation. It is not just about change for the sake of change; it is about purposeful alteration. Whether you are adjusting a recipe, a garment, or a business strategy, 'modificar' is the precise tool in your vocabulary to describe that action.

El profesor decidió modificar la fecha del examen final.

Debemos modificar nuestra estrategia de marketing para este trimestre.

El sastre tuvo que modificar los pantalones porque eran demasiado largos.

¿Podrías modificar el documento y enviármelo de nuevo?

Using modificar correctly involves understanding its conjugation as a regular '-ar' verb and its typical syntactic patterns. Because it is a transitive verb, it almost always requires a direct object—the thing that is being changed. You don't just 'modify'; you modify a plan, a law, a behavior, or a document. This structure makes it relatively straightforward for English speakers, as it mirrors the usage of 'to modify' or 'to adjust' in English. However, paying attention to the noun that follows can help you sound more like a native speaker.

The Direct Object Pattern
The most common pattern is [Subject] + [Conjugated Modificar] + [Noun Phrase]. For example, 'Yo modifico el contrato' (I modify the contract). Here, 'el contrato' is the direct object receiving the action.
Using Infinitives with Auxiliary Verbs
In many cases, 'modificar' appears in its infinitive form after verbs like 'querer' (to want), 'necesitar' (to need), or 'deber' (should/must). 'Tenemos que modificar la ruta' (We have to modify the route).
Passive and Impersonal Forms
In formal writing, you will often see the 'se' impersonal or passive construction: 'Se modificaron los términos' (The terms were modified). This is very common in official announcements or technical manuals.

Si el clima empeora, tendremos que modificar nuestro itinerario de viaje.

Translation: If the weather worsens, we will have to modify our travel itinerary.

One subtle aspect of using 'modificar' is its relationship with adjectives. When you modify something, you often do it 'ligeramente' (slightly) or 'sustancialmente' (substantially). These adverbs provide necessary context to the degree of change. Furthermore, 'modificar' can be used in the reflexive form 'modificarse' to describe something that changes itself or undergoes change automatically, though this is less common than the active form. For instance, 'Las condiciones se modifican según la demanda' (Conditions change according to demand).

El programador está modificando el código para corregir un error.

¿Has modificado alguna vez una receta de cocina?

In the real world, modificar is a word that bridges the gap between formal and semi-formal Spanish. You will hear it in news broadcasts, read it in user manuals, and use it in office meetings. It is a 'safe' word—it sounds educated without being overly pretentious. If you are in a Spanish-speaking country and need to change an appointment at a clinic or a bank, using 'modificar' will make you sound precise and polite. It is the language of administration and organization.

In the News
News anchors often report on legislative changes using this verb. 'El parlamento busca modificar la ley de educación' (Parliament seeks to modify the education law). It emphasizes the procedural nature of the change.
In Technology
When you use software in Spanish, buttons often say 'Modificar perfil' (Modify profile) or 'Modificar configuración' (Modify settings). It is the standard translation for 'Edit' in many digital contexts.
In Customer Service
If you call an airline, the agent might ask: '¿Desea modificar su vuelo?' (Do you wish to modify your flight?). Using this verb indicates a professional transaction involving an existing record.

La empresa anunció que va a modificar su política de privacidad el próximo mes.

Translation: The company announced it is going to modify its privacy policy next month.

You might also hear it in academic settings. Professors might ask students to 'modificar su tesis' (modify their thesis) or 'modificar su enfoque' (modify their approach). In these instances, it suggests a refinement of thought and methodology. It is a word that implies critical thinking and the willingness to adapt based on new information or feedback. Even in casual settings, if someone says 'He modificado mi opinión' (I have modified my opinion), it sounds more thoughtful than just saying 'He cambiado de idea' (I changed my mind), as it suggests a nuanced shift rather than a total reversal.

While modificar is a cognate of the English 'modify', which makes it easier to remember, there are still pitfalls that learners should avoid to ensure their Spanish sounds natural and accurate. The most common errors usually involve overusing the word where 'cambiar' would be more appropriate, or failing to apply the correct spelling changes during conjugation. Let's break down these common stumbling blocks.

Over-formalization
Because 'modificar' sounds formal, some learners use it for very simple changes where it sounds out of place. For example, if you are changing your clothes, you should say 'cambiarse de ropa', not 'modificar la ropa'. The latter would imply you are actually sewing or tailoring the clothes!
Preterite Spelling Error
In the 'yo' form of the preterite tense, many students write 'modificé' correctly but forget the 'qu'. If you write 'modifice' (which is incorrect), it would technically be pronounced 'mo-di-fi-the' or 'mo-di-fi-se', losing the hard 'k' sound of the root. Always remember: c becomes qu before e.
Confusing with 'Mudar'
Learners sometimes confuse 'modificar' with 'mudar' (to move house or to shed skin/change). While all involve change, 'modificar' is specifically about alteration of an object's properties, not its location or a biological shedding process.

Incorrect: Modificamos de casa el mes pasado.
Correct: Nos mudamos de casa el mes pasado.

Another mistake is forgetting that 'modificar' is transitive. You shouldn't say 'El plan modificó' to mean 'The plan changed'. You should say 'El plan se modificó' (The plan was modified/changed) or 'Alguien modificó el plan'. Without the 'se' or a subject performing the action, the sentence feels incomplete in Spanish. This is a common error for English speakers because 'change' can be both transitive and intransitive in English, but 'modificar' needs that extra grammatical care.

To truly master the concept of change in Spanish, you need to know how modificar relates to its synonyms. While 'modificar' is often the most precise word for 'to adjust', other verbs might be better depending on the intensity or the specific nature of the change you are describing. Expanding your vocabulary with these alternatives will make your Spanish more descriptive and sophisticated.

Cambiar vs. Modificar
'Cambiar' is the general term for 'to change'. It can mean to replace one thing with another (cambiar de coche) or a total transformation. 'Modificar' is more specific; it's about altering parts of an existing thing.
Ajustar vs. Modificar
'Ajustar' (to adjust) is often used for physical things or numerical values to make them fit or be correct. You 'ajustas' your seatbelt or 'ajustas' a budget. 'Modificar' is broader and can apply to abstract concepts like laws or behavior.
Alterar vs. Modificar
'Alterar' often carries a slightly negative connotation or implies a disturbance. If you 'alteras' the order of things, you might be causing confusion. 'Modificar' is usually neutral or positive, implying a purposeful improvement.
Reformar vs. Modificar
'Reformar' is used for large-scale changes, often in architecture or social systems. You 'reformas' a house (renovate) or 'reformas' the constitution. 'Modificar' is for smaller, more specific adjustments.

En lugar de modificar el plan, decidieron cancelarlo por completo.

Translation: Instead of modifying the plan, they decided to cancel it completely.

In a creative context, you might use 'transformar' (to transform) to indicate a deep, radical change in form or character. If you are fixing a small mistake in a text, 'corregir' (to correct) or 'rectificar' (to rectify) are more precise than 'modificar'. By choosing the right word from this spectrum of 'change' verbs, you demonstrate a high level of linguistic control. Practice using 'modificar' when you want to emphasize that the core identity of the object remains, but its attributes are being refined.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The word originally meant to set limits or 'measure out' something, rather than just changing it. It shares the same root as 'model' and 'moderate'.

Guide de prononciation

UK /mɒdɪfɪˈkɑːr/
US /moʊdɪfɪˈkɑːr/
The stress is on the last syllable: mo-di-fi-CAR.
Rime avec
cantar hablar llegar mirar pensar tomar viajar estudiar
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing 'c' as 's' before 'a' (it should be a 'k' sound).
  • Stressing the wrong syllable (like the English 'MO-di-fy').
  • Not tapping the 'r' at the end.
  • Making the 'd' too hard like an English 'd'.
  • Swallowing the 'i' sounds.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

Easy to recognize because of the English cognate 'modify'.

Écriture 3/5

Requires remembering the 'qu' spelling change in some tenses.

Expression orale 2/5

Regular pronunciation except for the stress on the last syllable.

Écoute 2/5

Clear and distinct sounds, easy to pick up in speech.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

cambiar hacer nuevo cosa plan

Apprends ensuite

ajustar reformar enmendar variación corregir

Avancé

reivindicar especificar justificar verificar
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Exemples par niveau

1

Yo modifico mi perfil.

I modify my profile.

Present tense, 1st person singular.

2

¿Puedes modificar el color?

Can you modify the color?

Infinitive after a modal verb.

3

Ella modifica la foto.

She modifies the photo.

Present tense, 3rd person singular.

4

Nosotros modificamos el plan.

We modify the plan.

Present tense, 1st person plural.

5

Ellos no modifican nada.

They don't modify anything.

Negative sentence.

6

Usted modifica el texto.

You (formal) modify the text.

Formal 'usted' address.

7

Él quiere modificar su nombre.

He wants to modify his name.

Querer + infinitive.

8

¿Modificas tú la reserva?

Do you modify the reservation?

Question form.

1

Modifiqué mi horario de trabajo.

I modified my work schedule.

Preterite tense with 'qu' spelling change.

2

El sastre modificó mis pantalones.

The tailor modified my pants.

Preterite tense, 3rd person singular.

3

Debemos modificar la fecha del viaje.

We must modify the travel date.

Deber + infinitive.

4

¿Has modificado la receta?

Have you modified the recipe?

Present perfect tense.

5

Ellos modificaron el diseño de la web.

They modified the web design.

Preterite tense, 3rd person plural.

6

Voy a modificar mi contraseña.

I am going to modify my password.

Ir + a + infinitive.

7

Modificamos el coche para correr más.

We modified the car to run faster.

Preterite tense, 1st person plural.

8

Ella modificaba sus vestidos de niña.

She used to modify her dresses as a girl.

Imperfect tense for habitual action.

1

Espero que el jefe modifique el proyecto.

I hope the boss modifies the project.

Present subjunctive after 'esperar que'.

2

Si tuviera tiempo, modificaría el jardín.

If I had time, I would modify the garden.

Conditional tense.

3

Han modificado la ley de tráfico recientemente.

They have recently modified the traffic law.

Present perfect with an adverb.

4

Es necesario modificar nuestra conducta ambiental.

It is necessary to modify our environmental behavior.

Impersonal expression + infinitive.

5

No creo que modifiquen el examen.

I don't think they will modify the exam.

Present subjunctive after 'no creo que'.

6

El arquitecto está modificando los planos.

The architect is modifying the blueprints.

Present progressive.

7

Modificamos la oferta para atraer más clientes.

We modified the offer to attract more customers.

Preterite tense.

8

¿Por qué no modificaste los datos ayer?

Why didn't you modify the data yesterday?

Preterite tense, 2nd person singular.

1

Se han modificado los términos del contrato.

The contract terms have been modified.

Passive 'se' with present perfect.

2

El autor decidió modificar el final de la novela.

The author decided to modify the novel's ending.

Decidir + infinitive.

3

Es fundamental modificar el sistema educativo.

It is fundamental to modify the educational system.

Adjective + infinitive construction.

4

Aunque modifiquen el precio, no lo compraré.

Even if they modify the price, I won't buy it.

Subjunctive for hypothetical concession.

5

La empresa ha modificado sustancialmente su política.

The company has substantially modified its policy.

Adverbial modification of the verb.

6

Habíamos modificado el itinerario antes de salir.

We had modified the itinerary before leaving.

Past perfect (pluscuamperfecto).

7

Modificar el ADN es un tema ético complejo.

Modifying DNA is a complex ethical issue.

Infinitive as a noun/subject.

8

El programa se modifica automáticamente.

The program modifies itself automatically.

Reflexive use of the verb.

1

El gobierno se vio obligado a modificar el decreto.

The government was forced to modify the decree.

Passive voice construction.

2

Cualquier intento de modificar la realidad fracasará.

Any attempt to modify reality will fail.

Infinitive in a complex noun phrase.

3

Resulta imperativo modificar los paradigmas actuales.

It is imperative to modify current paradigms.

Formal impersonal expression.

4

No es posible modificar el pasado, pero sí el futuro.

It's not possible to modify the past, but the future is.

Contrastive sentence structure.

5

La sentencia fue modificada tras la apelación.

The sentence was modified after the appeal.

True passive voice (ser + past participle).

6

Sugiero que modifiquemos el enfoque metodológico.

I suggest that we modify the methodological approach.

Subjunctive after a verb of suggestion.

7

El clima se ha modificado debido a la actividad humana.

The climate has been modified due to human activity.

Reflexive/Passive use in a scientific context.

8

Sin modificar un ápice de su discurso, el político salió.

Without modifying a bit of his speech, the politician left.

Prepositional phrase with infinitive.

1

La ontología del ser no se puede modificar a voluntad.

The ontology of being cannot be modified at will.

Abstract subject with passive construction.

2

El texto fue modificado para eludir la censura.

The text was modified to evade censorship.

Passive voice indicating purpose.

3

Es lícito modificar las cláusulas si hay mutuo acuerdo.

It is legal to modify the clauses if there is mutual agreement.

Formal legal language.

4

La evolución modifica las especies a lo largo de milenios.

Evolution modifies species over millennia.

Scientific present tense.

5

No se debe modificar la escena del crimen.

The crime scene must not be modified.

Impersonal 'se' with a modal verb.

6

El artista se negó a modificar su obra maestra.

The artist refused to modify his masterpiece.

Reflexive 'negarse' + infinitive.

7

Las leyes físicas no se modifican por el pensamiento.

Physical laws are not modified by thought.

Passive 'se' in a philosophical context.

8

Modificar el curso de la historia requiere valentía.

Modifying the course of history requires courage.

Infinitive as a subject.

Collocations courantes

modificar la ley
modificar el plan
modificar la conducta
modificar el contrato
modificar el perfil
modificar el diseño
modificar el presupuesto
modificar el horario
modificar la estructura
modificar genéticamente

Phrases Courantes

modificar a voluntad

— To change something whenever one wants.

Puedes modificar los ajustes a voluntad.

modificar sobre la marcha

— To change something while it is already happening.

Tuvimos que modificar el discurso sobre la marcha.

sin modificar un ápice

— Without changing even a tiny bit.

Repitió la historia sin modificar un ápice.

modificar sustancialmente

— To change something in a significant way.

La nueva ley modifica sustancialmente la anterior.

modificar ligeramente

— To change something just a little bit.

Modifiqué ligeramente el sabor con sal.

sujeto a modificaciones

— Likely to change or be updated.

El horario está sujeto a modificaciones.

modificar la trayectoria

— To change the path of something moving.

El viento modificó la trayectoria de la bala.

modificar el entorno

— To change the surroundings.

Los humanos modifican su entorno constantemente.

modificar la realidad

— To change how things actually are.

No puedes modificar la realidad con deseos.

modificar los términos

— To change the conditions of an agreement.

Queremos modificar los términos de uso.

Expressions idiomatiques

"modificar el chip"

— To change one's mindset or way of thinking.

Tienes que modificar el chip para tener éxito.

Informal
"no modificar ni una coma"

— To keep a text exactly as it is, without any edits.

El autor no permitió modificar ni una coma de su obra.

Neutral
"modificar el rumbo"

— To change the direction of a project or life.

La empresa debe modificar el rumbo para no quebrar.

Neutral
"modificar la cara"

— To change the appearance of something to make it look better.

Vamos a modificar la cara de la tienda.

Informal
"modificar los papeles"

— To change roles or positions in a situation.

En la segunda mitad del juego, se modificaron los papeles.

Neutral
"modificar el guion"

— To change the expected plan or outcome.

Un evento inesperado modificó el guion de la boda.

Neutral
"modificar el panorama"

— To change the overall situation or outlook.

La nueva tecnología modificó el panorama industrial.

Neutral
"modificar la balanza"

— To change the balance of power or influence.

Su voto modificó la balanza a favor del sí.

Neutral
"modificar los hábitos"

— To change one's regular routines.

Es vital modificar los hábitos alimenticios.

Neutral
"modificar el ADN"

— Metaphorically, to change the core essence of something.

Esa derrota modificó el ADN del equipo.

Informal

Famille de mots

Noms

modificación
modificador

Verbes

modificar

Adjectifs

modificable
modificado
modificativo

Apparenté

cambio
alteración
ajuste
reforma
variación
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Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of a 'MOD' in a video game. You are 'MOD-ifying' the game to change the rules or graphics. In Spanish, it's 'MOD-ificar'.

Association visuelle

Imagine a tailor adjusting a suit. He isn't making a new suit, he is just 'modificando' the sleeves.

Word Web

cambiar ajustar editar ley plan contrato perfil receta

Défi

Try to find three buttons in your favorite app that say 'Modificar' or 'Editar' and note what they change.

Origine du mot

From Latin 'modificāre', composed of 'modus' (measure, manner) and 'facere' (to make).

Sens originel : To keep within measure or to limit.

Romance (Latinate)

Contexte culturel

No specific sensitivities; it is a neutral, professional term.

English speakers often use 'edit' or 'change' where Spanish speakers would use 'modificar'.

Modificación de la Constitución Española Alimentos Modificados Genéticamente (debate) La modificación (novel by Michel Butor, translated)

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Technology

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Contenu associé

Ce mot dans d'autres langues

modificar 포르투갈어
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