debase vs modify

debase and modify both are verbs.

Word	Noun	Adjective	Verb	Adverb
debase	No	No	Yes	No
modify	No	No	Yes	No

As verbs, modify is a hypernym of debase; that is, modify is a word with a broader meaning than debase:

Other hypernyms of debase include alter, change.

debase (verb)	modify (verb)
lower in value by increasing the base-metal content	make less severe or harsh or extreme
corrupt, debase, or make impure by adding a foreign or inferior substance; often by replacing valuable ingredients with inferior ones	add a modifier to a constituent
corrupt morally or by intemperance or sensuality	cause to change; make different; cause a transformation