Adopt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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adopt

[əˈdɒpt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

family

Legally take another's child and bring it up as one's own. Adopting a child is a big responsibility that requires love, patience, and dedication.

Synonyms

become the parent of, take as one's own, take in.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
adopt	Often used in legal or formal contexts when someone legally takes on the responsibility of raising a child that is not their biological offspring. They decided to adopt a child from the local orphanage. She adopted a new companion animal from the shelter.
take in	Generally used in more informal settings and can refer to allowing someone to live in your home, whether temporarily or permanently. It can also imply a sense of offering support or shelter. We often take in stray animals until we can find them a good home. The family decided to take in a foster child.
take as one's own	Used to describe the act of accepting responsibility for something, not limited to children, but also ideas or projects. This phrase can sometimes suggest a formal or responsible approach. She took the project as her own and saw it through to completion. They have decided to take these traditions as their own.
become the parent of	A formal or descriptive phrase used to convey the act of taking on the role of a parent, often in writings or documentation. After the lengthy process, they finally became the parents of two siblings. He became the parent of his deceased brother's children.

Examples of usage

She decided to adopt a baby from a foreign country.
They are planning to adopt a child from a local orphanage.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

idea

Choose to take up or follow (an idea, method, or course of action). To adopt a new approach means to embrace a different way of thinking or doing things.

Synonyms

accept, embrace, implement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
adopt	Used when someone chooses to take up something new, such as a method, policy, or even a child. It implies a conscious decision and often a formal process. The company decided to adopt a new marketing strategy. They plan to adopt a child from overseas.
embrace	Used when welcoming or eagerly adopting something new or unfamiliar, often with enthusiasm. It suggests a warm and positive reception. The community embraced the new cultural festival. Many people are embracing a healthier lifestyle.
accept	Used when agreeing to receive or take something that is offered or acknowledging something as valid or correct. It may imply a passive receipt rather than an active choice. She accepted the job offer without hesitation. He accepted responsibility for the mistake.
implement	Used when putting a decision, plan, or agreement into effect. It implies action and execution of a pre-existing plan. The government plans to implement new regulations. The company will implement the new software next month.

Examples of usage

The company decided to adopt a more environmentally friendly policy.
She was quick to adopt the latest technology in her business.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'adopt'

The word 'adopt' originated from the Old French word 'adopter', which in turn came from the Latin word 'adoptare', meaning 'to choose for oneself'. The concept of adoption has been present in various cultures throughout history, often as a way to provide care and support to children who are not biologically related to their caregivers.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,822, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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