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 Instead of fluorescent colors and sparkles, they've been adapted to be as pared-down as possible, with thin straps and sometimes kitten heels —as Miu Miu demonstrated in its seasonal runway show. Michel Mejía, Glamour, 1 June 2025 Anticipating the shift, major vape manufacturers began adapting their product lines ahead of the legislation coming into force. Olivia Kemp, CNN Money, 31 May 2025 The home is designed to adapt to daily life rather than just contain it. New Atlas, 31 May 2025 Available in navy blue, burnt orange, and deep green, the plush material is designed to adapt to all seasons. Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for adapt
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adapt
Verb
  • The handle can even be extended from 26 inches to 32.5 inches, or adjusted down to a 90-degree angle and back.
    Izzy Baskette, People.com, 2 June 2025
  • If the freshmen can adjust quickly, the defensive possibilities for this group are pretty scary.
    CJ Moore, New York Times, 2 June 2025
Verb
  • Readers should not rely solely on the content of this article and are encouraged to seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances.
    Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 6 June 2025
  • That could be a service reminder, a birthday postcard or an offer tailored to recent behavior.
    Ryan Ferrier, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025
Verb
  • In Feeding Ghosts, the disconnect between Sun Yi’s training and instincts as a journalist, and the requirements of the increasingly totalitarian Communist regime to make reality conform to their narrative, literally drove her insane.
    Rob Salkowitz, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025
  • In ruling in favor of Harris, Contreras said the statutory protections for board members from being removed without cause conform with the Constitution in light of a 1935 Supreme Court precedent in a case called Humphrey's Executor v. United States.
    John Kruzel, USA Today, 23 May 2025
Verb
  • Also noteworthy was the natural, human-centric approach to the user interface, with the AI agent interacting in a warm conversational tone and doing so in a regional accent selected to suit the location being called.
    Ray Ravaglia, Forbes.com, 30 May 2025
  • Here are six other emerging hubs, with yachts best suited to explore each region.
    Julia Zaltzman, Robb Report, 30 May 2025
Verb
  • Fox One is launching by the fall, and puts sports at the forefront of its overall offering.
    John Cassillo, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
  • Every hard-working American deserves a living wage that helps put a roof over their head and food on the table–$7.25 an hour doesn't even come close.
    / CBS News, CBS News, 10 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Adapt.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adapt. Accessed 13 Jun. 2025.

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