1
Core action
Modify something for a new purpose or situation, or adjust successfully to changed conditions.
Example
Engineers adapted the device for use in rural clinics.
adapt
/əˈdæpt/ · uh-DAPTverb
Modify something for a new purpose or situation, or adjust successfully to changed conditions.
Use adapt to express this relationship precisely: modify something for a new purpose or situation, or adjust successfully to changed conditions.
What adapt Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Common construction
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
The species can adapt to seasonal drought.
3
Reasoning effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The director adapted the novel for the stage.
Use adapt Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
Engineers adapted the device for use in rural clinics.
The species can adapt to seasonal drought.
The director adapted the novel for the stage.
Precision Matters
Adapt overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
adapt
vs.Means modify something for a new purpose or situation, or adjust successfully to changed conditions.
interpret
Means explain, understand, or assign meaning or significance to information, language, evidence, or events.
adapt
vs.Means modify something for a new purpose or situation, or adjust successfully to changed conditions.
approximate
Means close to the actual value, amount, or form but not completely exact or precise.
adapt
vs.Means modify something for a new purpose or situation, or adjust successfully to changed conditions.
derived
Means obtained, developed, or inferred from a specified source, basis, or process.
adapt
vs.Means modify something for a new purpose or situation, or adjust successfully to changed conditions.
thrive
Means grow, develop, or succeed vigorously, especially under favourable conditions.
Test adapt in Context
They modify the casing so it works in a new environment.
1
Because the original sensor failed in extreme heat, engineers had to ___ its casing for desert conditions.