to adapt it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to adapt it" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the process of modifying or adjusting something to fit a new purpose or context. Example: "We need to adapt it to meet the requirements of the new project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Now it needs to adapt it to its principles.

The Economist

Its open source code makes it possible to adapt it in future, as required.

Global Health Action

Upon learning the adapter would be paid more than he would, he volunteered to adapt it himself.

The New York Times

What made you want to adapt it?

The Guardian - Film

Film4 signed her up to adapt it.

The Guardian - Film

I'm going to adapt it right now for you".

The New Yorker

He had to adapt it for the screen".

Independent

So this year, I decided to adapt it as one.

The New York Times - Food

Two attempts to adapt it for American television failed.

The New Yorker

There has been one attempt to adapt it for TV.

The Guardian - Books

So to even be considered to adapt it, to be allowed to adapt it, is just an incredible honour.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "to adapt it", ensure that the context clearly identifies what "it" refers to. This avoids ambiguity and ensures your writing is precise.

Common error

Avoid using "to adapt it" when the required changes are so extensive that a complete overhaul or replacement would be more appropriate. "Adapting" implies modifying, not recreating.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to adapt it" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose or intention. It typically follows a verb and indicates the reason for an action, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Science & Research

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to adapt it" is a common and grammatically correct infinitive phrase used to express the need to modify something for a specific purpose. According to Ludwig, the phrase is widely used across diverse contexts like News & Media and Science. To ensure clear communication, it's important to clarify what "it" refers to. While alternatives like "to modify it" or "to adjust it" exist, "to adapt it" implies a comprehensive change to fit new conditions. Avoid using it when a complete overhaul is necessary. Understanding these nuances will help you use the phrase effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to modify it

Focuses on the act of changing something, often implying adjustments to improve its functionality.

to adjust it

Highlights fine-tuning or making small changes to achieve a desired outcome.

to tailor it

Emphasizes customizing something to meet specific needs or preferences.

to customize it

Similar to 'tailor it', stressing personalization and adaptation to individual requirements.

to transform it

Suggests a more significant change, potentially altering the form or nature of something.

to convert it

Implies changing something from one form or function to another.

to reshape it

Focuses on changing the shape or structure of something.

to revise it

Indicates making corrections or improvements to a text or plan.

to refine it

Highlights the process of making something more polished or precise.

to amend it

Suggests making formal changes, often in legal or official documents.

FAQs

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

You can use "to adapt it" when you want to express the need to modify something for a new purpose or context. For example, "We need "to adapt it" to the new software system".

What are some alternatives to "to adapt it"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "to modify it", "to adjust it", or "to tailor it".

Is there a difference between "to adapt it" and "to adopt it"?

"To adapt it" means to modify something to suit a new purpose, while "to "to adopt it"" means to take something into use or follow it. The two phrases have distinct meanings and should not be used interchangeably.

When is it more appropriate to use "to modify it" instead of "to adapt it"?

While similar, "to "to modify it"" is best when referring to making specific changes, whereas "to adapt it" implies a more comprehensive adjustment to fit new conditions or requirements.