Modifikacija

Modifikacija is a term used to describe the process or result of altering something from its original form. It covers changes in appearance, function, performance, or other properties, and can be intentional or incidental. The word is widely used in South Slavic languages such as Croatian, Serbian, Bosnian, and Slovenian, and it is cognate with the English "modification." The form derives from Latin modificare via European languages.

In biology, genetic modification refers to techniques that change an organism's genetic material, including gene editing and transgenesis, often to study function or to create desirable traits or products. In chemistry and materials science, modification denotes chemical or physical changes to a molecule, material, or surface, called functionalization or derivatization, aimed at altering reactivity, stability, or properties.

In technology and culture, modification includes software and hardware changes, adaptations for compatibility, or personal customization, such as software mods, car or video-game mods, and DIY improvements. Modifications can be reversible or permanent, large or subtle, and may carry regulatory or safety implications depending on the context.

Ethical and legal considerations vary by field and jurisdiction, emphasizing consent, safety, environmental impact, and intellectual property. The concept of modifikacija thus encompasses a broad set of practices tied to the idea of purposeful change to achieve a desired outcome.

See also: genetic modification; software modification; vehicle modification.