Meaning & use
adapting
Last updated
UK/əˈdæp.tɪŋ/
US/əˈdæp.tɪŋ/
“adapting” is a form of “adapt”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.
Meaning
verbtransitive or intransitive
Adjusting behavior, design, or form to suit new conditions or requirements.
Grammar: As the -ing form of adapt; can take an object: adapting the plan, or not: adapting to change.
Patterns
- adapting to change
- adapting something for someone
- adapting to a new environment
Adapting to remote work took several months.
She is adapting the recipe for a smaller pan.
The species is adapting to warmer water.
Common combinations
- adapting to change
- Adapting to change is a daily skill now.
- adapting to a new environment
- The interns spent August adapting to a new environment.
- adapting something for use
- They are adapting the garage for use as a studio.
Synonyms and how they differ
- adjusting
- Very close everyday word; adapting can suggest larger redesign or evolution.
- modifying
- Changing details; adapting stresses better fit to conditions.
- accommodating
- Changing to meet needs or people; adapting is broader to environment or purpose.
Word family
- adapt verb
- Base form: to adjust.
- adaptation noun
- The process or result of adapting.
- adaptable adjective
- Able to adjust.
Practice
Complete the pattern: adapting ___ new rules.
Choose one answer.
The intransitive pattern is adapt to something. From introduces a source after adapted, not the process of adjusting.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “adapting”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.
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