Definition of Adaptation
Quick Meaning of Adaptation
The ability to change and adjust to suit new situations or environments; also a version of a book or story in a different format.
Detailed Definition of Adaptation
The process of adjusting to new conditions or the result of such adjustment; also, a work altered or modified for a different medium.
How to Pronounce Adaptation
Stress pattern: oooO (4-syllable word).
Tip: Four syllables with stress on the last: ad-ap-TAY-shun. The final 'tion' sounds like 'shun'.
Watch out: Stressing the first or second syllable, or mispronouncing 'ad' as 'add'.
Origin and Etymology of Adaptation
From Latin adaptare, combining ad (to) and aptare (to fit).
How to Use Adaptation in a Sentence
Each example shows “adaptation” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Animals show remarkable adaptation to harsh desert environments.”
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“The movie is an adaptation of a bestselling novel published in 2015.”
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“Successful adaptation to remote work requires both technical skills and discipline.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Adaptation
Common Synonyms for Adaptation
Smart Synonyms for Adaptation — When to Use Each
- adjustment
- for practical changes made to fit situations
- acclimatization
- for biological adjustment to environmental changes
- version
- for a film or book modified from original
Common Collocations with Adaptation
These phrases pair with “adaptation” in everyday English:
- successful adaptation
- climate adaptation
- adaptation to change
- film adaptation
- cultural adaptation
Common Mistakes When Using Adaptation
Even fluent speakers slip up with “adaptation”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The plant's adaptation of the new soil took months.
- ✓ Correct: The plant's adaptation to the new soil took months.
- Why: Use 'to' not 'of' when showing what something adapts to.
- ✗ Wrong: The adaptations is important for survival.
- ✓ Correct: Adaptation is important for survival.
- Why: Singular 'adaptation' takes singular verb 'is'; don't add plural -s.
Words Confused With Adaptation
- Adaptation vs Modification: Adaptation means adjusting to new conditions or requirements; modification is a deliberate change for improvement.
Other Forms of Adaptation
- Noun: adaptation
- Verb: adapt
- Adjective: adaptive
Frequently Asked Questions About Adaptation
What is the meaning of "Adaptation"?
The ability to change and adjust to suit new situations or environments; also a version of a book or story in a different format.
How do you pronounce "Adaptation"?
The IPA is /ˌædæpˈteɪʃən/. Four syllables with stress on the last: ad-ap-TAY-shun. The final 'tion' sounds like 'shun'.
What part of speech is "Adaptation"?
"Adaptation" is a noun at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Adaptation"?
Common synonyms include adjustment, acclimatization, version.
How do you use "Adaptation" in a sentence?
For example: "Animals show remarkable adaptation to harsh desert environments."