Definition of adaptnext

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 Remaining true to the brand is fundamental to the expansion and focuses on the universal values of Roberto Coin as the brand adapts its collection presentation, experiences and client services for each local market. — Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 26 Oct. 2026 If successful, this could reduce the time and expense of adapting hypersonic technology to different mission requirements. — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 25 Oct. 2026 For Buckley, adapting to that changing market began with recognizing how much True Religion’s own customer had changed. — Tatiana Sataua, Fortune, 25 Oct. 2026 So here is a common sense approach the NFL should adapt to avoid these public relations black eyes – because the league gets a lot of coverage over national anthem performances that go awry. — Armando Salguero Outkick, FOXNews.com, 25 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for adapt
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adapt
Verb
  • By adjusting the distance between the tips, the team could stretch or compress the molecular structure, changing the voltage at which the current enhancement began.
    — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2026
  • Hackett said adjusting investments to reflect personal financial goals, changes in risk tolerance, or shifting income needs are good reasons to make changes.
    — Marco Quiroz-Gutierrez, Fortune, 24 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • The concept includes a Beauty Lounge, a travel-specific Mini Mart and services tailored to the pre-flight journey, alongside an assortment spanning Rhode, Summer Fridays, Diptyque, Byredo and Emma Lewisham.
    — Kapila Ireland, Vogue, 27 Oct. 2026
  • Meanwhile, hospitals are often paid less to treat children than adults, and buying gear tailored to kids adds extra costs.
    — CBS News, CBS News, 27 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • This may be related to pressure to conform to and uphold masculine norms and objectifying women.
    — CNN Money, CNN Money, 27 Oct. 2026
  • But in the last decade or so, there has been pressure to conform ideologically and make films with messages.
    — Zac Ntim, Deadline, 26 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • Cantwell almost assuredly will be an eventual starter at tackle, a position that Miami now feels he’s best suited after experimenting with him at guard.
    — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 27 Oct. 2026
  • Personalized medicine already helps doctors match patients with drugs suited to their cancer’s unique biology.
    — Mike McRae October 25, New Atlas, 26 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • After the break, Colleyville Heritage wide receiver Trevi Preische’s 10-yard TD reception helped the Panthers make some progress, but a 23-yard score from Caldwell put Argyle’s lead back to three-scores.
    — Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Oct. 2026
  • Congress answered with the Air Commerce Act of 1926, which put the Commerce Department in charge of commercial flight.
    — Neil Chatterjee, Fortune, 23 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Adapt.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adapt. Accessed 29 Oct. 2026.

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