What does it mean to amend a motion?

To amend a motion means to adjust the wording or meaning of the original motion put forward in a meeting or assembly. This process allows members to modify a proposal to better reflect their intentions or to improve clarity. By making such changes, participants can address specific concerns or enhance the motion's effectiveness, which can lead to a more favorable outcome or increase the likelihood of acceptance among members. This is an important aspect of parliamentary procedure, as it enables constructive discussion and refinement of ideas within an organization.

The other options refer to different procedures or actions that do not align with the definition of amending a motion. For example, changing the discussion leader involves a logistical adjustment to who is facilitating the conversation rather than altering the content of the proposal. Cancelling the motion signifies an end to its consideration and does not involve modification. Expressing dissent relates to voicing disagreement, but again does not pertain to the act of amending the text of a motion.