to adapt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to adapt" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of adjusting or modifying something to fit new conditions or requirements. Example: "In order to succeed in a rapidly changing market, companies must learn to adapt their strategies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Bloomfield struggled to adapt.

The New Yorker

I had to adapt".

The New York Times

We've had to adapt.

The Guardian - Sport

How to adapt?

The New York Times

We had to adapt".

The New York Times - Sports

"You have to adapt".

The New York Times - Sports

We need to adapt.

Independent

Barr learned to adapt.

The New Yorker

They appeared to adapt quickly.

The New York Times - Sports

Baseball was slow to adapt.

Encyclopedia Britannica

So I had to adapt".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to adapt", consider whether the change is proactive or reactive. If it's in response to a challenge, emphasize resilience. If it's planned, highlight foresight.

Common error

Avoid using "to adapt" with abstract concepts that cannot be physically altered. For example, instead of saying 'to adapt the truth', consider 'to interpret the truth' or 'to reconcile with the truth'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to adapt" primarily functions as an infinitive verb phrase. It indicates an action of making suitable changes to fit new conditions. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is both grammatically correct and widely applicable, appearing in numerous real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to adapt" is a versatile and frequently used infinitive verb phrase that conveys the action of adjusting or modifying to fit new conditions. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically sound and widely applicable. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase maintains a neutral register, suitable for both formal and informal communication. Consider alternative phrases like "to adjust" or "to modify" to fine-tune your message. Be mindful of using "to adapt" with concrete rather than abstract objects to maintain clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to adjust

This is a direct synonym, focusing on making minor changes to fit a new situation.

to modify

Implies making changes to something, often with the intention of improving it or making it more suitable.

to conform

Focuses on aligning with a standard or set of rules.

to accommodate

Highlights making space or allowances for something or someone.

to acclimate

Specifically refers to adjusting to a new environment or climate.

to evolve

Suggests a gradual process of change and development.

to tailor

Implies customizing something to meet specific needs.

to transform

Signifies a significant change in form or appearance.

to convert

Focuses on changing something into a different form or system.

to revise

Indicates making changes to correct or improve something.

FAQs

How can I use "to adapt" in a sentence?

You can use "to adapt" in various contexts, such as "Companies need "to adapt" to changing market conditions" or "Individuals must learn "to adapt" to new technologies".

What are some alternatives to "to adapt"?

Some alternatives include "to adjust", "to modify", "to conform", or "to accommodate", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Which is correct, "to adapt to" or "to adapt with"?

"To adapt to" is the correct usage when referring to adjusting to a new environment or situation. "To adapt with" is less common and may imply using something as an aid in the adaptation process, though it's generally better to rephrase.

What's the difference between "to adapt" and "to adopt"?

"To adapt" means to change or modify something to suit new conditions, while "to adopt" means to take up or start to use something new. For example, a company might "to adapt" its marketing strategy, or "to adopt" a new technology.