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adopted

v.
B1 Intermediate US //əˈdɑptɪd// UK //ɐdˈɒptɪd// adopt·ed

v. to legally take someone else's child into your family and raise them as your own. You can also use this when a group starts using a new idea or plan.

v. to legally take another's child and bring it up as one's own; alternatively, to formally accept or start to use a specific method, policy, or attitude. Transitive — requires a direct object.


SIMPLE

The couple adopted a baby from a local agency.

CONTEXTUAL

The committee adopted a new set of safety rules to prevent accidents in the factory.

COMPLEX

After years of deliberation, the city council finally adopted the urban renewal plan, signaling a shift toward more sustainable public transportation infrastructure.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

The verb is transitive and takes a direct object. When referring to children, it is often used in the passive voice ('he was adopted').

Pitfall

They adopted to the new cultureThey adapted to the new cultureLearners often confuse 'adopt' (to take something as your own) with 'adapt' (to change to fit a new situation).

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