adapt

word

/əˈdæpt/
uh-DAPT
/ɐdˈæpt/
uh-DAPT

Definition

To change something to fit a new situation or to change yourself so you can deal with new conditions or environments.

Usage & Nuances

Used in both formal and informal contexts. Common collocations: 'adapt to changes', 'adapt quickly', 'adapt a book into a movie'. Often confused with 'adjust' (small changes), but 'adapt' often means bigger, sometimes personal changes.

Example Sentences

It took me a while to adapt to the new work schedule.

natural

The director wants to adapt this novel into a film.

natural

Animals must adapt to their environment to survive.

basic

You need to adapt when you move to a new country.

basic

Our school will adapt the program for younger children.

basic

She quickly learned how to adapt when things changed.

natural