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 Native Americans during the earliest periods of contact with Europeans in Texas, according to Spanish records, also adapted to the prevailing cycles of seasonal flooding in the state's interior by modifying their economic trade cycles. Doyle Rice, USA Today, 8 July 2025 Orland Park Mayor Jim Dodge said Monday that, after talking with Rossi, it was decided that trying to have Leo adapt to a new handler, and vice-versa would be difficult. Mike Nolan, Chicago Tribune, 7 July 2025 French settlers later changed the spelling to Michilimackinac, adapting it to the French language, and the British eventually shortened the name to Mackinac. Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 7 July 2025 Igor Jesus adapted quickly, clambering past Soares in the pecking order and registering six goals and an assist in his first seven starts. Jack Lang, New York Times, 27 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for adapt
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adapt
Verb
  • Still available in white and taupe, its generous strap (which can be worn two ways) is designed to fit comfortably over the shoulder, but can be adjusted to become a crossbody, too.
    Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 July 2025
  • Parents can adjust between four suction levels based on how congested their baby is.
    Kaitlyn Gomez, USA Today, 8 July 2025
Verb
  • Brutal bareknuckle fighting returns on Saturday night with BKFC 78 Hollywood: Perdomo vs. Adams, in an event tailored to the most hardcore of fight fans.
    Ben Verbrugge, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 July 2025
  • Instead of aiming for Pinterest perfection, focus first on storing things to be accessible and tailored to your lifestyle.
    Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 July 2025
Verb
  • As most states conform to federal definitions for determining income and deductions, this means that the tax rate for gambling income has the potential to be even higher than the 74% rate illustrated in the example.
    Nathan Goldman, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025
  • These changes do not require the two-step 28-day process of normal rule changes because this would be a change to conform to law, under Civil Code 4355(b)(4).
    Kelly G. Richardson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 July 2025
Verb
  • As such, Raleigh's new icon will likely be best suited to slight inclines and fairly level city streets.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 5 July 2025
  • Available for adoption through Our Companions’ Re-homing Program, Rocco is 2 years old and looking to find a home that can better suit his youthful energy and size.
    Staff report, Hartford Courant, 4 July 2025
Verb
  • Cayley put her deposit down in February and traveled to Turkey in May.
    Hedy Phillips, People.com, 15 July 2025
  • But the 2025 grades put Brookshire Elementary School in Winter Park in an uncomfortable spotlight.
    Zoey Thomas, The Orlando Sentinel, 15 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Adapt.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adapt. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

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