A2 Collocation Neutral 4 min read

修改

xiugai

To modify

Literally: {"\u4fee":"to repair, to fix, to mend","\u6539":"to change, to alter, to correct"}

In 15 Seconds

  • Use `修改` to adjust or improve existing things.
  • It means editing, revising, or tweaking plans and texts.
  • Avoid it for creating new items or fixing broken objects.
  • It's a versatile word for making things better.

Meaning

This word is your go-to for fixing or changing something to make it better. It’s like hitting the 'edit' button on a document, a plan, or even your own behavior.

Key Examples

3 of 12
1

Texting a friend about a movie plan

我们原定的电影时间有点晚,要不要修改一下?

Our original movie time is a bit late, should we modify it?

2

Submitting a report at work

经理要求我修改报告里的数据。

The manager asked me to modify the data in the report.

3

Discussing a project proposal

这个方案还需要修改几处才能通过。

This proposal still needs several modifications before it can be approved.

🌍

Cultural Background

The concept of 'modification' or 'revision' is deeply ingrained in Chinese culture, particularly in scholarly and artistic traditions. Practices like calligraphy and painting often involve careful revisions and refinements, valuing the process of iterative improvement. This cultural emphasis on perfecting existing forms rather than solely creating novelty likely contributed to the widespread and nuanced use of `修改`.

💡

Think 'Refine,' Not 'Replace'

Remember, `修改` is about making something *better*, not starting over. It's like polishing a gem rather than finding a new one.

🎯

The 'Edit Button' Vibe

Imagine you have an 'edit' button for life. That's `修改`! You're making thoughtful changes to improve the existing situation.

In 15 Seconds

  • Use `修改` to adjust or improve existing things.
  • It means editing, revising, or tweaking plans and texts.
  • Avoid it for creating new items or fixing broken objects.
  • It's a versatile word for making things better.

What It Means

修改 is all about making something better. Think of it as tweaking, editing, or revising. You use it when you want to adjust an existing thing. It’s not about creating something totally new. It’s about improving what’s already there. It has a positive vibe, suggesting progress.

How To Use It

You use 修改 when an original plan, text, or item needs adjustments. It’s a versatile verb. You can 修改 a document, a proposal, or even your own schedule. It implies a deliberate action to improve or correct. You’re not just changing it; you’re refining it. It’s like a chef tasting a dish and adding a pinch of salt.

Real-Life Examples

Imagine you're writing an essay for class. You finish the first draft. Then you go back to 修改 it. You fix typos and rephrase sentences. Or maybe you planned a trip with friends. Someone suggests a new restaurant. You 修改 the itinerary to include it. Planning a party? You might 修改 the guest list. Or perhaps your boss asks you to 修改 a report. You add more data. You make it stronger. It’s used everywhere, from homework to big projects.

When To Use It

Use 修改 when you have something that exists. This could be a written piece, a plan, a design, or even a rule. You identify something that could be improved. Then you take action to make those improvements. It’s perfect for making things more accurate or suitable. Think of refining an argument or polishing a presentation. It’s about making good things even better.

When NOT To Use It

Don't use 修改 for creating something from scratch. If you’re building a house, you’re not 修改 it initially. You’re building it. If you’re inventing a new gadget, you’re not 修改 it. You’re developing it. Also, avoid it for simple, irreversible actions. You don’t 修改 a broken vase after gluing it back together. That's more like 'repairing' (修理 - xiūlǐ). It’s also not for things that are already perfect. No need to 修改 a masterpiece, right?

Common Mistakes

Sometimes, you might mix up 修改 with other words. Forgetting to use 修改 when you mean to edit is common. Also, using it for brand-new creations is a slip-up. Let’s look at some typical errors. You might say you want to 修改 a new idea. That sounds a bit odd. You’d usually 'develop' or 'create' a new idea. Or you might try to 修改 a finished painting. If it's truly finished, you wouldn't 修改 it. You might 'restore' it, perhaps. It’s about the nuance of adjustment vs. creation or restoration. It’s easy to make these little mix-ups when you’re learning!

Similar Expressions

There are other words that seem close. 更改 (gēnggǎi) is similar but often implies a more significant or even arbitrary change. It can feel less about improvement and more about switching things up. 修订 (xiūdìng) is often used for formal revisions, like editing a book or a law. It’s more specific than 修改. 调整 (tiáozhěng) means 'to adjust' and is often used for fine-tuning or making small changes, especially to settings or plans. 修正 (xiūzhèng) is very close and often interchangeable, but it leans more towards 'correcting errors' or 'amendments'. 修改 is the most general and widely applicable term for 'to modify' or 'to revise'.

Common Variations

You’ll often see 修改 used with specific objects. For example, 修改意见 (xiūgǎi yìjiàn) means 'suggestions for modification'. You might receive these after submitting a draft. 修改稿 (xiūgǎi gǎo) refers to a revised draft. If you’re working on a project, you might talk about the 修改 process. It’s the period where you’re making changes. Sometimes, people use it as a noun informally, like 'I need some 修改,' meaning 'I need to make some changes.'

Memory Trick

💡

Think of 修改 as 'My Cool Idea'. You have a cool idea, but maybe it needs a little polish. So, you (fix) and (change) your 'My Cool Idea' to make it even cooler! It’s a bit silly, but it helps link the sound and the action of improving something. Imagine your favorite character in a game getting a cool update – that’s 修改!

Quick FAQ

* Q: Is 修改 always positive? A: Mostly! It implies improvement. But sometimes, you might 修改 something negatively, though that's less common. It usually means making it fit better.

* Q: Can I 修改 my personality? A: Yes! You can talk about 修改 your habits or attitude. It means working on self-improvement.

* Q: What's the difference between 修改 and 修理? A: 修理 (xiūlǐ) is for fixing broken things. 修改 is for improving or changing existing things that aren't necessarily broken. You 修理 a car; you 修改 a plan.

Usage Notes

Generally neutral in formality, `修改` is widely applicable. Be mindful not to use it for repairing broken items (`修理`) or creating entirely new things (`创造`). In very formal contexts, `修正` or `修订` might be preferred for legal or official documents.

💡

Think 'Refine,' Not 'Replace'

Remember, `修改` is about making something *better*, not starting over. It's like polishing a gem rather than finding a new one.

🎯

The 'Edit Button' Vibe

Imagine you have an 'edit' button for life. That's `修改`! You're making thoughtful changes to improve the existing situation.

💬

Subtle Perfectionism

In Chinese culture, there's often a deep appreciation for refinement. `修改` reflects this value, suggesting a careful process to achieve a better outcome.

⚠️

Don't Fix What Ain't Broken (or New!)

Avoid using `修改` for brand-new creations (use `创造` or `设计`) or for fixing broken objects (use `修理`). It's for *adjusting* what's already there.

Examples

12
#1 Texting a friend about a movie plan

我们原定的电影时间有点晚,要不要修改一下?

Our original movie time is a bit late, should we modify it?

Here, `修改` is used to adjust the timing of an existing plan.

#2 Submitting a report at work

经理要求我修改报告里的数据。

The manager asked me to modify the data in the report.

This shows a professional context where a report needs factual correction.

#3 Discussing a project proposal

这个方案还需要修改几处才能通过。

This proposal still needs several modifications before it can be approved.

`修改` here refers to making necessary changes to a plan.

#4 Instagram caption for a DIY project

刚完成我的小书架,但觉得颜色需要修改一下!🎨 #DIY #HomeDecor

Just finished my little bookshelf, but I feel the color needs modification! 🎨 #DIY #HomeDecor

Used informally for personal creative adjustments.

#5 Commenting on a friend's blog post draft

你的文章写得真棒!我有一些修改意见,稍后发给你。

Your article is written wonderfully! I have some suggestions for modification, I'll send them to you later.

This is a polite way to offer constructive criticism.

#6 A learner's mistake in a sentence

✗ 我想创造一个新手机。 → ✓ 我想设计一个新手机。

✗ I want to create a new mobile phone. → ✓ I want to design a new mobile phone.

Here, `创造` (create) is better than `修改` (modify) for something entirely new.

#7 A learner's mistake in a sentence

✗ 他在修改他的旧椅子。 → ✓ 他在修理他的旧椅子。

✗ He is modifying his old chair. → ✓ He is repairing his old chair.

`修理` (repair) is used for fixing broken things, not `修改` (modify).

#8 Humorous WhatsApp message

我昨晚吃的太多了,今天必须修改我的饮食计划!😂

I ate too much last night, I must modify my diet plan today! 😂

A lighthearted use of `修改` for personal habits.

#9 Expressing deep regret

如果能回到过去,我真想修改当初那个错误的决定。

If I could go back to the past, I really wish I could modify that wrong decision back then.

Shows an emotional use, wishing to undo a past action.

#10 Editing a document online

请帮我修改一下这份合同的条款。

Please help me modify the terms of this contract.

Direct request for changes in a formal document.

#11 Discussing a software update

开发者正在修改这个bug,很快就会发布新版本。

The developers are modifying this bug, a new version will be released soon.

Common in tech contexts for fixing issues.

#12 Planning a travel itinerary

我们得修改一下行程,因为航班取消了。

We have to modify the itinerary because the flight was cancelled.

Shows practical adaptation of plans due to unforeseen circumstances.

Test Yourself

Choose the correct sentence.

Which sentence uses `修改` correctly?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我需要修改我的作业。

`修改` is used to adjust or improve existing work like homework, not to create or repair abstract ideas.

Fill in the blank with the correct word.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 修改

`修改` means to adjust or improve an existing plan.

Find and fix the error in the sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

You don't 'modify' clothes directly like this; you modify the design or pattern, or perhaps 'alter' (改 - gǎi) the clothes if you're sewing them.

Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

The structure 'Subject + Verb + Object' is common. `了` indicates the action is completed.

Translate this sentence into Chinese.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

`修改` is the appropriate verb for revising plans.

Choose the correct sentence.

Which sentence correctly uses `修改`?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 请帮我修改一下这个句子。

`修改` is the best fit for editing or revising a sentence.

Find and fix the error in the sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

`修理` (xiūlǐ) is used for fixing broken or old vehicles, while `修改` is for adjusting existing plans, texts, or designs.

Fill in the blank with the correct word.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 修改

`修改` implies a process of revision and improvement needed for a final draft.

Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

This sentence structure means 'We received some suggestions for modification'.

Translate this sentence into Chinese.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer:

`修改` is suitable for revising creative works like a novel's ending.

Choose the correct sentence.

Which sentence best expresses the idea of making amendments to a law?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他正在修正法律。

`修正` (xiūzhèng) is often preferred for formal amendments to laws or official documents, though `修改` can sometimes be used.

Fill in the blank with the correct word.

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 修改

`修改` implies adapting software to meet new requirements, suggesting improvement and change.

🎉 Score: /12

Visual Learning Aids

`修改` (xiūgǎi) Usage Spectrum

Very Informal

Casual chat, texting friends about minor adjustments.

我改了下时间。

Neutral

Everyday conversations, work emails, general instructions.

请修改这份报告。

Formal

Official documents, legal contexts, academic revisions.

需要对条款进行修改。

Very Formal

Rarely used in its base form; often `修正` or `修订` preferred.

(通常用 修正/修订)

When Do You `修改`?

`修改` (To Modify)
✏️

Editing homework

修改作业

✈️

Adjusting plans

修改行程

📄

Revising documents

修改合同

💡

Improving designs

修改设计

💻

Correcting code

修改代码

👩‍🍳

Tweaking recipes

修改食谱

`修改` vs. Similar Words

`修改` (xiūgǎi)
修改计划 Modify a plan (general adjustment)
修改文章 Revise an article (editing)
`更改` (gēnggǎi)
更改时间 Change time (can be abrupt or arbitrary)
更改密码 Change password (a direct replacement)
`修正` (xiūzhèng)
修正错误 Correct an error (focus on accuracy)
修正案 Amendment (formal correction)

Scenarios for `修改`

✍️

Written Work

  • Editing essays
  • Revising reports
  • Correcting code comments
🗓️

Plans & Schedules

  • Adjusting meeting times
  • Modifying travel itineraries
  • Changing project deadlines
🎨

Creative & Design

  • Tweaking a logo
  • Adjusting a recipe
  • Refining a presentation
🧘

Personal Habits

  • Modifying study habits
  • Adjusting a diet plan

Practice Bank

12 exercises
Choose the correct sentence. Choose beginner

Which sentence uses `修改` correctly?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我需要修改我的作业。

`修改` is used to adjust or improve existing work like homework, not to create or repair abstract ideas.

Fill in the blank with the correct word. Fill Blank beginner

我们可以 ___ 这份计划,让它更完善。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 修改

`修改` means to adjust or improve an existing plan.

Find and fix the error in the sentence. Error Fix intermediate

Find and fix the mistake:

我需要修改我的新衣服,因为它太大了。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我需要修改我的新衣服的设计,因为它太大了。

You don't 'modify' clothes directly like this; you modify the design or pattern, or perhaps 'alter' (改 - gǎi) the clothes if you're sewing them.

Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence. Reorder intermediate

Arrange the words in the correct order:

Click words above to build the sentence

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他修改了报告数据。

The structure 'Subject + Verb + Object' is common. `了` indicates the action is completed.

Translate this sentence into Chinese. Translate intermediate

We need to revise our travel plans.

Hints: Travel plans: 旅行计划, We need to: 我们需要

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我们需要修改我们的旅行计划。

`修改` is the appropriate verb for revising plans.

Choose the correct sentence. Choose intermediate

Which sentence correctly uses `修改`?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 请帮我修改一下这个句子。

`修改` is the best fit for editing or revising a sentence.

Find and fix the error in the sentence. Error Fix advanced

Find and fix the mistake:

我打算修改我的车,因为它很旧了。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我打算修理我的车,因为它很旧了。

`修理` (xiūlǐ) is used for fixing broken or old vehicles, while `修改` is for adjusting existing plans, texts, or designs.

Fill in the blank with the correct word. Fill Blank advanced

这份文件需要经过多次 ___ 才能最终定稿。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 修改

`修改` implies a process of revision and improvement needed for a final draft.

Put the words in the correct order to form a sentence. Reorder advanced

Arrange the words in the correct order:

Click words above to build the sentence

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 我们收到了一些修改意见。

This sentence structure means 'We received some suggestions for modification'.

Translate this sentence into Chinese. Translate advanced

The author decided to revise the ending of the novel.

Hints: Author: 作者, Ending: 结局

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 作者决定修改小说的结局。

`修改` is suitable for revising creative works like a novel's ending.

Choose the correct sentence. Choose advanced

Which sentence best expresses the idea of making amendments to a law?

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 他正在修正法律。

`修正` (xiūzhèng) is often preferred for formal amendments to laws or official documents, though `修改` can sometimes be used.

Fill in the blank with the correct word. Fill Blank advanced

这个软件需要 ___ 以适应新的用户需求。

✓ Correct! ✗ Not quite. Correct answer: 修改

`修改` implies adapting software to meet new requirements, suggesting improvement and change.

🎉 Score: /12

Frequently Asked Questions

18 questions

修改 means to modify, revise, or amend something that already exists. It implies making changes to improve it, correct it, or adapt it to new circumstances. Think of it as editing or tweaking rather than creating something completely new.

Yes, but usually for adjusting or improving aspects of an object or its design, not for fixing something broken. For example, you might 修改 a dress pattern, but you would 修理 a broken chair.

修改 is quite versatile and generally considered neutral. You can use it in everyday conversations, work emails, and even some more formal writing. However, for very high-level legal or academic contexts, words like 修正 (xiūzhèng) or 修订 (xiūdìng) might be preferred.

修改 usually involves refining or editing something specific, like a document or plan, implying improvement. 改变 is a broader term for 'to change' and can refer to more fundamental or sweeping alterations, like changing one's life or the weather.

修改 often implies making improvements or corrections. 更改 is more about switching or altering something, and it can sometimes feel more arbitrary or less focused on enhancement. For example, you 修改 an essay for better flow, but you might 更改 your appointment time because it's inconvenient.

Absolutely! You can definitely 修改 your study habits, your approach to a problem, or even your mindset. It signifies a conscious effort to adjust and potentially improve these abstract elements.

修改意见 translates to 'suggestions for modification' or 'comments for revision'. It's what someone might give you after reviewing your work, pointing out areas that need adjustment or improvement.

In a professional setting, 修改 is commonly used when referring to reports, proposals, contracts, or software. For instance, 'The boss asked me to 修改 the report' (老板让我修改报告) is a typical professional request.

While 修改 is primarily a verb, it can sometimes be used informally as a noun meaning 'modification' or 'revision', especially in spoken language. For example, '我需要一些修改' (Wǒ xūyào yīxiē xiūgǎi) means 'I need some modifications'.

No, if something is broken and needs fixing, you should use 修理 (xiūlǐ). 修改 is for adjusting or improving something that is functional but needs tweaking or editing.

Definitely not. 修改 means to change or improve something that already exists. For inventing or creating something new, you'd use words like 创造 (chuàngzào - create) or 发明 (fāmíng - invent).

A frequent mistake is using 修改 when they mean to 'repair' something broken, like saying 'modify a broken phone' instead of 'repair a broken phone'. Another error is using it for completely new creations.

While generally positive or neutral, 修改 *could* imply changes that aren't necessarily improvements if the context is critical. However, the word itself doesn't carry inherent negativity; it's the context that defines the outcome.

修订 is often used for more formal and thorough revisions, especially of texts like books, laws, or regulations. Think of it as a more official or academic form of revision compared to the general-purpose 修改.

Yes, you could potentially use 修改 to talk about minor adjustments to your appearance, like changing a hairstyle slightly. However, for more significant changes, 改变 (gǎibiàn - change) might be more appropriate.

调整 often implies fine-tuning or making small adjustments, especially to settings, systems, or balances. 修改 is broader and can involve more substantial edits or revisions to content or plans.

Yes, it's used frequently! You might see people say they need to 修改 a post, adjust a photo's settings, or tweak their profile information. It fits perfectly for online digital content adjustments.

Not necessarily. While you can collaborate on 修改 (e.g., 'Let's modify this together'), the word itself doesn't inherently imply collaboration. It simply refers to the act of making changes.

Related Phrases

🔗

更改

related topic

To change, alter

While both mean 'to change', `更改` often implies a more direct or arbitrary switch, whereas `修改` usually suggests refinement or improvement.

🔗

修正

related topic

To correct, amend

`修正` focuses specifically on correcting errors or making amendments, often in formal contexts, making it a more specialized form of `修改`.

👔

修订

formal version

To revise, amend (formal)

`修订` is a more formal term often used for revising official documents like laws, books, or regulations, implying a thorough and official process.

🔗

调整

related topic

To adjust, regulate

`调整` implies making fine-tuning or small adjustments, often to settings, systems, or plans, rather than significant edits.

↔️

修理

antonym

To repair, fix

`修理` is used for fixing broken objects, contrasting with `修改` which is for improving or altering existing, functional items.

🔗

改变

related topic

To change

`改变` is a general term for change; `修改` specifies changing something for improvement or correction, often implying less drastic alteration.

Was this helpful?

Comments (0)

Login to Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!