B2verb2K

Adopt

UK /["/əˈdɒpt/","/əˈdɒpts/","/əˈdɒptɪd/","/əˈdɒptɪŋ/"]/US /["/əˈdɑːpt/","/əˈdɑːpts/","/əˈdɑːptɪd/","/əˈdɑːptɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to take somebody else’s child into your family and become its legal parent(s)

In simple words: To take something as your own, like a pet or idea.

Examples

They decided to adopt a child from the local orphanage.
Many companies choose to adopt new technologies to improve efficiency.
She wanted to adopt the stray dog she found on the street.
The organization aims to adopt sustainable practices in its operations.
They will adopt a new policy regarding employee bonuses next month.

Usage notes

Used when someone chooses to take on something new, like adopting a child or an animal. It’s not usually used in very formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

adopt + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'dog' in need of a home; when you 'adopt' it, you give it love.

Collocations

legally
have somebody adopted
formally
officially
tend to
decide to
be forced to
formally
officially
tend to
decide to
be forced to

Synonyms

take on
embrace
accept
foster
assume

Antonyms

reject
abandon

Common mistakes

Using 'adopt' incorrectly by not following it with an object.
Confusing 'adopt' with 'adapt'; they mean different things.
Using 'adopt' in contexts where 'accept' or 'take on' might be better.