ring the changes

To make something more interesting by doing it differently or using different combinations.

• Let us ring the changes tonight.
• She rang the changes by rearranging the furniture.
• You can ring the changes with different vegetables each week.

How to use it: ring the changes with something (Ring the changes with a different sauce.); ring the changes on something (She rang the changes on her usual recipes.)

Similar words: vary, add variety, change things up

Common phrases: ring the changes, ring the changes with

To try or use every possible version or combination of something.

• We rang the changes on the basic pattern.
• The designer rang the changes on every possible color combination.
• Can you ring the changes on these three themes?

How to use it: ring the changes on something (The composer rang the changes on a simple melody.)

Similar words: explore all variations, try every combination

Common phrases: ring the changes, ring the changes on

To play ordered sequences on bells, beginning and ending with the same note.

• The ringers rang the changes.
• We learned to ring the changes on the church bells.
• They ring the changes every Sunday morning.

Similar words: perform change ringing

Common phrases: ring the changes, ring the changes together

To pay with fake money as if it were real.

• The thief tried to ring the changes.
• He rang the changes by paying with forged notes.
• Shopkeepers feared criminals would ring the changes at the fair.

Similar words: pass counterfeit money

Common phrases: ring the changes, ring the changes again

To use a change in circumstances as a way to make money.

• The trader hoped to ring the changes.
• He rang the changes when the market shifted in his favor.
• They used the new prices to ring the changes and make money.

Similar words: capitalize on change, profit from change

Common phrases: ring the changes, ring the changes profitably