Synonym Chooser

How does the verb adapt contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of adapt are accommodate, adjust, conform, and reconcile. While all these words mean "to bring one thing into correspondence with another," adapt implies a modification according to changing circumstances.

adapted themselves to the warmer climate

Where would accommodate be a reasonable alternative to adapt?

The synonyms accommodate and adapt are sometimes interchangeable, but accommodate may suggest yielding or compromising to effect a correspondence.

accommodated his political beliefs in order to win

When can adjust be used instead of adapt?

The meanings of adjust and adapt largely overlap; however, adjust suggests bringing into a close and exact correspondence or harmony such as exists between parts of a mechanism.

adjusted the budget to allow for inflation

In what contexts can conform take the place of adapt?

In some situations, the words conform and adapt are roughly equivalent. However, conform applies to bringing into accordance with a pattern, example, or principle.

refused to conform to society's values

When is it sensible to use reconcile instead of adapt?

While in some cases nearly identical to adapt, reconcile implies the demonstration of the underlying compatibility of things that seem to be incompatible.

tried to reconcile what he said with what I knew

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of adapt But there are ways that sequencing could be adapted to shine a bright light on emerging variants, Pekosz said. Lisa M. Krieger, The Mercury News, 31 Jan. 2025 And countless other projects — including recent films like Poor Things and Lisa Frankenstein — have drawn inspiration from Shelley without directly adapting her work. Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 30 Jan. 2025 As the disease appears in more mammals—such as sea lions in South America and minks in Europe and China—experts fear that the virus is adapting to better infect and spread among mammals. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 30 Jan. 2025 Among the projects being adapted is Night of the Ghoul, set up at 20th Century Studios with Rob Savage (The Boogeyman) on board to direct. Borys Kit, The Hollywood Reporter, 30 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for adapt 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adapt
Verb
  • In a similar case reported by Newsweek, a dog owner adjusted their pet's routine after a neighbor continuously avoided the area due to safety concerns.
    David Faris, Newsweek, 2 Feb. 2025
  • However, the premise was adjusted slightly after Josh, 44, filed for divorce from Christina in July 2024.
    Toria Sheffield, People.com, 2 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • Features like personalized recommendations, natural photo searches and contextual app suggestions are tailored to individual usage patterns without exposing sensitive to external servers.
    Thomas Westerholm, Newsweek, 24 Jan. 2025
  • Machine learning will dynamically tailor content, visuals and offers to individual preferences.
    Dani Nadel, Forbes, 24 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • Therefore, there is just cause to uphold Mr. Hoberg’s termination for failing to conform to high standards of personal conduct and to maintain the integrity of the game of baseball.
    Ryan Gaydos, Fox News, 3 Feb. 2025
  • The goal is to ensure that filmmakers from regions like Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa can bring their work to the global stage without feeling pressured to conform to Western tastes.
    Scott Roxborough, The Hollywood Reporter, 2 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • The full-service firm has studio locations in the Dallas and Austin areas and works in a variety of styles to suit their clients’ personal tastes.
    Dan Howarth, Architectural Digest, 30 Jan. 2025
  • Comprehensive formula High fiber content for satiety and gut health Multiple flavor options to suit different preferences Thin consistency when mixed with water alone This mix from Ka’Chava has an impressive array of 85+ superfoods.
    Jordan Galloway, SELF, 30 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • Avoid putting shade-loving plants alongside sun-loving varieties that need six or more hours of direct sunlight a day.
    Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 29 Jan. 2025
  • New research has validated that prediction and put meat on its bones.
    Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 29 Jan. 2025

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Thesaurus Entries Near adapt

Cite this Entry

“Adapt.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adapt. Accessed 8 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on adapt

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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