modifier

• Nom désignant quelque chose ou quelqu'un qui modifie, par exemple un mot qui précise le sens d'un autre (comme un adjectif ou un adverbe), une personne qui atténue ou rend moins extrême, un agent qui change quelque chose, ou un gène qui modifie l'effet d'un autre gène.

A noun referring to something or someone that modifies, such as a word that qualifies the meaning of another (e.g., an adjective or adverb), a person who moderates or makes less extreme, an agent that changes something, or a gene that alters the effect of another gene.

1. Grammar termB2formal

   A word or phrase that qualifies or limits the meaning of another word, such as an adjective or adverb.

   modificateur (grammaire)

   • In the phrase 'very tall building', 'very' is a modifier.
   • Adjectives and adverbs are common types of modifiers.
   • A misplaced modifier can change the meaning of a sentence.

   Synonymesadjunctqualifier

2. Person who moderatesC1formal

   A person who makes something less extreme or uncompromising.

   Personne qui modère

   • The modifier in the debate helped keep the discussion balanced.
   • He acted as a modifier, softening the harsh terms of the agreement.
   • A good leader is often a modifier of extreme views.

   Synonymesmoderator

3. Person who changes somethingB2formal

   A person who alters or adjusts something.

   personne qui modifie

   • The designer was a modifier of the original blueprint.
   • As a modifier of the text, she improved its clarity.
   • He is known as a modifier of classic recipes.

   Synonymesadjusterchangereditor

4. Genetic modifierC2formalscientific

   A gene that modifies the effect produced by another gene.

   Gène modificateur

   • The modifier gene suppressed the expression of the dominant trait.
   • Scientists identified a modifier that influences disease severity.
   • Genetic modifiers can explain variations in inherited conditions.