adapt
To change something to fit new conditions or purposes
Examples
In a meeting
“We need to adapt our strategy to the new market conditions.”
Over coffee
“I had to adapt my recipe because I didn't have all the ingredients.”
Why this word
adjust
adapt implies more comprehensive modification to suit new conditions, while adjust suggests minor changes or fine-tuning
change
adapt specifically means modifying to fit new circumstances, while change is general and doesn't imply purpose
modify
adapt emphasizes changing to survive or function better in new conditions, while modify is more neutral about the reason
Usage tip
Use when something needs modification to suit different circumstances, not complete replacement
Etymology
Latin 'adaptare' from 'ad-' (to) + 'aptare' (fit)
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Related words
revamp
To give new and improved form, structure, or appearance to something.
deteriorate
To become progressively worse over time.
reconsider
Think about a decision or opinion again with the possibility of changing it
pivot
Change direction or strategy while maintaining a central focus
backtrack
To reverse a previous decision or statement
revert
To return to a previous state or practice