Meaning and Usage
"変更" (へんこう) means "change," "modification," or "alteration." It is commonly used in formal and business contexts to describe changes to plans, contracts, schedules, or systems.
Common Collocations
- 予定の変更 (change of schedule): used when plans or appointments are altered.
- 契約の変更 (contract modification): refers to changes in legal agreements.
- システムの変更 (system change): used in IT or technical contexts.
Usage Notes
"変更" is a noun but often appears with the verb "する" to form "変更する" meaning "to change" or "to modify." It is more formal than casual words like "変わる" or "変える." When using "変更," the speaker usually implies an official or deliberate change rather than a natural or accidental one.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "変更" with "変化," which also means change but is more about natural or gradual changes. Use "変更" for intentional or planned modifications.
Politeness and Register
"変更" is neutral to formal and suitable for business, official documents, and polite conversation.