Reading Theme:
Adapt: Definition, Usage & Key Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：adjust to new conditions (adapt)
adapt
/əˈdæpt/
v.
To change yourself to fit new conditions or a new environment.
adjust to new conditions
➕
/əˈdʒʌst tu nuː kənˈdɪʃənz/
v.
To change oneself in order to suit new circumstances or surroundings.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'adaptare', meaning 'to adjust', from 'ad-' (to) + 'aptare' (to fit).
💡 Mnemonic
Think 'A-dapt' as 'A fit' – you adapt to fit into new situations.
📖 Example
When she moved to a new city for university, it took her a few months to adapt to the different weather and food.
After relocating for university, she needed several months to get accustomed to the unfamiliar climate and food.
🔗 Collocations
adapt to – adjust to a new situation
adapt quickly – change rapidly to fit new conditions
adapt well – adjust successfully
🔄 Synonyms
adjust (v.) – to change slightly to become suitable
acclimate (v.) – to become accustomed to a new climate or environment
accommodate (v.) – to adapt or make suitable
🚫 Antonyms
resist (v.) – to oppose or refuse to change
remain static (phrase) – to stay unchanged
🌱 Derivatives
adaptable (adj.) – able to adjust to new conditions
adaptation (n.) – the process of adapting
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'adapt' originates from Latin 'adaptare', entering English in the early 17th century. It is widely used in biology to describe species' adjustments for survival, reflecting its core meaning of fitting to new conditions.
Meaning 2：modify for a new purpose (adapt)
adapt
/əˈdæpt/
v.
To change something so that it can be used in a new way or for a new purpose.
modify for a new purpose
➕
/ˈmɒdɪfaɪ fɔːr ə nuː ˈpɜːpəs/
v.
To alter something so it can serve a different function or meet new requirements.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The chef decided to adapt the traditional recipe by using less sugar, making it a healthier option for his customers.
The chef modified the classic recipe to reduce sugar content, offering a healthier alternative.
🔗 Collocations
adapt from – modify based on an original source
adapt for – change to suit a specific purpose
adapt into – transform into a new form
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
preserve (v.) – to maintain in original state
keep unchanged (phrase) – to leave as is
Wordbook
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