Adapting
/əˈdæptɪŋ/
verbIntermediate📊CommonAction
1 meaning1 question
Definitions
1
To make changes to something so that it functions better or is more suitable in a new situation.
/əˈdæptɪŋ/
verbneutralIntermediate
Action
To modify or adjust to suit a new purpose or situation
The software is constantly being adapted to meet user needs.
💡 Simply: To change something to make it better in a new situation.
More Examples
2
She quickly adapted to the new culture.
How It's Used
General
"The company is adapting its marketing strategy to reach a younger audience."
Biology
"Animals adapt to their environment through natural selection."
From the verb "adapt," ultimately from Latin "adaptare" (to fit or adjust).
The word has been used in a similar sense since the 17th century, initially in the context of literary works.
Memory tip
Think of 'adapt' as 'add apt' – adding the right qualities to fit.
Word Origin
Original meaning
"to fit"
Base: adapt
adapting toadapting oneselfquickly adapting
Common misspellings
adaptinggadpatingadaptingg
Practice
Usage
40%Spoken
60%Written