adaptive

C1 · Advanced Science Technical

adj. describes a behavior or physical trait that helps a living thing survive in its environment.

adj. relating to a trait or behavior that increases an organism's fitness or ability to function within a specific ecological niche.

“The white fur of a polar bear is an adaptive trait for living in the snow.”

“Biologists argue that certain social behaviors in primates are adaptive, as they significantly increase the survival rate of offspring within the troop.”

C1 · Advanced Psychology Academic

adj. describes a person's ability to handle the demands of daily life and get along with others.

adj. pertaining to behaviors that allow an individual to meet the standards of personal independence and social responsibility expected for their age and cultural group.

“The therapist helped the patient develop more adaptive ways to deal with stress.”

“The study focused on adaptive coping mechanisms, contrasting them with avoidant behaviors that often exacerbate long-term psychological distress.”