alter course

/ˈɔːltər kɔːrs/
change direction

The captain ordered the crew to alter course to avoid the storm.

The captain changed the ship's direction to avoid the storm.


technical

To change the direction of a ship, aircraft, or vehicle.

The pilot requested to alter course due to turbulence.

The pilot changed direction because of turbulence.

Commonly used in aviation and maritime contexts.

Collocations

alter course tochange direction toalter course away fromchange direction away from

Related Phrases

change coursephrase
similar to alter course
divertphrase
to change direction, often for safety

Pro Tip

Technical Usage

This phrase is commonly used in aviation and maritime contexts to describe changing direction.

Gold Rule

Precision

Use 'alter course' when referring to a deliberate and often significant change in direction.

Word Origin

From Middle English 'alteren' (to change) and 'course' (path or direction).

Usage Notes

Often used in formal or technical contexts, especially in navigation and aviation.

Word Breakdown

alter
to change
root
+
course
direction or path
root
English Dictionary