The Word “Adopt”: Definitions, Synonyms, and Usage
adopt – Definition and Part of Speech
The word “adopt” functions primarily as a verb and carries several meanings depending on context. Most commonly, it refers to the act of officially taking another person’s child into one’s family and providing for their upbringing (e.g., “They decided to adopt a newborn”). Additionally, it can mean accepting or starting to use something new, such as an idea, method, or plan (“The company adopted new technology last year”).
Core Synonyms
Below is a table of synonyms for “adopt,” highlighting their nuances and typical contexts.
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assume | To take on or begin to use, often implies responsibility | “The manager assumed the new project.” | Formal/Informal |
| Accept | To agree to receive something willingly | “She accepted the proposal without hesitation.” | Formal/Academic |
| Embrace | To enthusiastically support or start using | “They embraced a more sustainable lifestyle.” | Casual/Creative |
| Uphold | To maintain or defend an idea, law, etc. | “The community vowed to uphold their traditions.” | Formal/Legal |
| Take on | To begin to use something new or take responsibility | “He took on the role of team leader.” | Informal/Casual |
Usage Notes
Contexts and Preferences
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Business Writing: “Adopt” is often used in business contexts when referring to implementing new strategies, technologies, or policies. For instance, a company might adopt a new software system.
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Academic Papers: In academic writing, “assume” can replace “adopt” when discussing theoretical frameworks or hypotheses (e.g., “The researchers assumed the null hypothesis”).
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Casual Speech: Words like “take on” or “embrace” fit well in everyday conversation. For example, one might say, “I took on yoga recently,” or “They embraced a more adventurous lifestyle.”
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Creative Writing: “Embrace” can convey an emotional depth or enthusiasm that aligns with creative narratives, adding color and interest to the prose.
Common Pitfalls
One common mistake is confusing “adopt” with “adapt.” While they are similar—adopt means taking something in as one’s own, and adapt implies modifying something for a new use—they serve different purposes. For example:
- Adopt: The family adopted three kittens.
- Adapt: They adapted the screenplay into a novel.
Another potential confusion arises with “assume,” which can mean to take on a role or position, often without prior notice (e.g., “He assumed leadership during the emergency”). However, when used in theoretical contexts, it’s more about starting from an unproven premise.
Final Recap
In summary, “adopt” is a versatile verb with synonyms such as “assume,” “accept,” “embrace,” “uphold,” and “take on,” each bringing its own shade of meaning to the table. Understanding these nuances can enhance both written and spoken communication by allowing for more precise expression.
Encourage readers to practice using these words in context—writing their own sentences or trying them out in conversations will help solidify their understanding and expand their vocabulary effectively.