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Amend vs. Emend
The question of whether to use amend or emend is a vexing one for many people, complicated by the fact that the words sound quite similar and have meanings that overlap to a considerable degree. Both words can be used with the meanings “to improve” or “to correct,” but there are subtle differences. Emend is most often used in connection with changes to some form of written material, such as a text or manuscript; while such documents may also be described as amended, amend can apply to improvements or corrections made to things other than writing, as in “he amended his behavior.” The confusion is compounded by the fact that one of the most frequently encountered uses of amend is in reference to a document: the Constitution of the United States.
Synonyms
Examples of amend in a Sentence
Quartz Bot, Quartz, 14 Nov. 2024
The resolution to amend the constitution faced no opposition from lawmakers when it was voted on in 2023.
—Caroline Beck, The Indianapolis Star, 6 Nov. 2024
Voters will also weigh Proposition 1 -- a measure introduced by the state legislature that, if approved, would amend the state constitution to include anti-discrimination protections for pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes and reproductive health care and autonomy.
—Abc News, ABC News, 4 Nov. 2024
After Elfenbein’s recommendation, Miami motioned to amend its complaint and withdraw the dilution claim.
—Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 3 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for amend 
Dictionary Entries Near amend
Cite this Entry
“Amend.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amend. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
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