B2verb1K

Adapt

UK /["/əˈdæpt/","/əˈdæpts/","/əˈdæptɪd/","/əˈdæptɪŋ/"]/US /["/əˈdæpt/","/əˈdæpts/","/əˈdæptɪd/","/əˈdæptɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to change your behaviour in order to deal more successfully with a new situation

In simple words: To change something so it works better in a new situation.

Examples

  • In order to survive in this changing climate, species must adapt to their new environments.
  • It's amazing how quickly children can adapt to new languages.
  • The film was adapted from a best-selling novel, bringing the story to a wider audience.
  • Many businesses have to adapt their strategies during economic downturns.
  • She decided to adapt the recipe to include healthier ingredients.

Usage notes

Use 'adapt' when talking about making changes to fit new conditions or requirements. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts but is often used in discussions about learning or adjusting to new environments.

Grammar pattern

adapt + object

Memory hint

Think of 'adapt' as 'A-DAPT' — A change in your actions to fit the situation.

Collocations

  • successfully
  • well
  • quickly
  • be able to
  • can
  • be unable to
  • to
  • the ability to adapt
  • find it difficult to adapt
  • find it hard to adapt
  • for
  • from
  • specially adapted
  • for
  • from
  • specially adapted

Synonyms

  • adjust
  • modify
  • alter
  • change
  • tailor

Antonyms

  • resist
  • reject
  • refuse

Common mistakes

  • 'Adapt to' vs. 'adapt for': Confusing these phrases.
  • Using 'adopt' instead of 'adapt': These words have different meanings.
  • Omitting the object: Forgetting to specify what is being adapted.