adapt over time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adapt over time" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing how something changes or evolves gradually in response to different circumstances or experiences. Example: "The species must learn to adapt over time to survive in their changing environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Please see related commentary, A contemporary model of a health care system is that of a complex adaptive system [ 1] with multiple nested interconnected parts that evolve, interact and adapt over time.

Critical Care

Like living organisms they change and adapt over time.

The Guardian

This village-like approach enables the design to flexibly adapt over time to the camp's continuing discussions about which existing structures to refurbish or demolish.

The New Yorker

He said public bodies systematically undervalue flexibility, and should give themselves the freedom to change what they do and adapt over time, learning about what works as they go.

The Guardian

The new toys, which are said to have a greater emotional range than the original Aibo, understand words heard through their ear microphones and adapt over time, developing personalities and capabilities according to how they are raised.

The New York Times - Tech

Jeannette Purcell, director of the accrediting Association of MBAs, says: "The MBA is the only post-experience business masters qualification, and it continues to demonstrate its ability to adapt over time to meet the needs of students and employers".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

The interpretation of that definition has adapted over time.

The Guardian - Opinion

The space can then be adapted over time, no matter who lives in it.

The Guardian

It has been adapted over time from a recipe handed down by my mother.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Dedications adapted over time as musicians became less indebted to their patrons.

The New York Times - Arts

I have a number of great winter stew and lamb dishes collected from various places and adapted over time.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that the subject of "adapt over time" is capable of change. This phrase is best suited for describing systems, organisms, or processes that can respond to external influences.

Common error

Avoid using "adapt over time" to describe static or unchanging entities. This phrase implies a capacity for dynamic response, so ensure the subject is something that can realistically evolve or adjust.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adapt over time" functions as a verb phrase, describing the process of changing or adjusting to new conditions as time progresses. This aligns with Ludwig examples showing organisms, systems, and organizations changing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "adapt over time" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that describes the process of changing or adjusting in response to evolving conditions. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is frequently used in science, news media, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, consider whether a more specific term like "evolve" or "adjust" might be more appropriate and avoid using it to describe unchanging entities. By following these guidelines, you can effectively communicate the dynamic nature of adaptation and its importance across various domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

evolve over time

Emphasizes a gradual and continuous development or transformation.

change with time

Highlights the alteration occurring in conjunction with the progression of time.

adjust through the years

Focuses on modifying or adapting specifically across a long duration.

modify as time passes

Suggests a deliberate alteration in response to the ongoing passage of time.

transform gradually

Highlights the slow and incremental nature of change.

develop progressively

Stresses the forward movement and advancement in the adaptation process.

become modified eventually

Focuses on the eventual transformation that occurs after a period of time.

shift incrementally

Indicates a series of small changes accumulating over time.

morph through time

Suggests a more dramatic or complete change over an extended period.

undergo a transformation

Describes a fundamental alteration in form or nature that occurs with time.

FAQs

How can I use "adapt over time" in a sentence?

You can use "adapt over time" to describe how systems, organisms, or strategies change in response to evolving conditions. For instance, "The company had to adapt over time to remain competitive."

What's the difference between "adapt over time" and "evolve over time"?

While both phrases relate to change, "adapt over time" suggests a more reactive adjustment to specific circumstances, whereas "evolve over time" implies a more gradual and continuous development.

What are some alternatives to "adapt over time"?

Alternatives include "change with time", "adjust through the years", or "modify as time passes", depending on the context.

Is "adapt over the time" grammatically correct?

No, the correct phrase is "adapt over time". The article "the" is unnecessary and grammatically incorrect in this context.