C1noun1K

Adaptation

UK /["/ˌædæpˈteɪʃn/","/əˈdæpʃn/"]/US /["/ˌædæpˈteɪʃn/","/əˈdæpʃn/"]/

Definition

the action or process of changing something, or of being changed, to suit a new purpose or situation

In simple words: A change made to fit into a new situation or environment.

Examples

  • the adaptation of buildings for military purposes
  • The process of adaptation to a new school is difficult for some children.
  • making adaptations to your home
  • a screen adaptation of Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’
  • the adaptation of desert species to the hot conditions
  • Adaptations in plants occur over thousands of years.

Usage notes

Use 'adaptation' when discussing changes in behavior, processes, or materials. It can often refer to environmental or biological contexts. More formal contexts might use it in literature or biology discussions.

Grammar pattern

adaptation + to/from + situation/environment

Memory hint

Think of 'adapt-a-tion' like fitting into a new place, like a chameleon changes color!

Collocations

  • successful
  • special
  • evolutionary
  • make
  • occur
  • adaptation for
  • adaptation of
  • adaptation to
  • a process of adaptation
  • cinematic
  • film
  • movie
  • develop
  • direct
  • film
  • adaptation of

Synonyms

  • adjustment
  • modification
  • alteration
  • change
  • conversion

Antonyms

  • stagnation
  • inflexibility

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'adapt' (verb) and 'adaptation' (noun).
  • Using 'adaptation' when 'adjustment' is more appropriate in everyday conversation.
  • Mixing up 'adaptation' with synonyms like 'modification' without considering context.