What is adopt? Pronunciation and usage in English

adopt means . Learn how to pronounce and use adopt through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of adopt

adoptverb

/əˈdɒpt/
Definition & pronunciation of adopt

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "adopt" in English. Here's a breakdown:

The most common and widely accepted pronunciation is:

  • /əˈdɑpt/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • əˈdɑpt
    • ə (first syllable): This is a very short, unstressed "uh" sound – almost like you're saying "a" quickly and lightly. Think of it as a schwa sound.
    • ˈdɑpt (second syllable): This is where the emphasis is.
      • d - as in "dog"
      • ɑpt - this is a short "ah" sound, like in "father" or "car." It's similar to the "a" in "cat."

Putting it all together: It sounds something like: "uh-DAHPt" (with a quick, quiet "uh" at the beginning)

Here are some helpful tips:

  • Stress: The stress is clearly on the second syllable ("DAHPt").
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. You can find plenty of audio examples on:

Do you want me to:

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  • Give you a more detailed explanation of the sounds involved?

Usage and examples with the word adopt in English

Let's break down how to use the word "adopt" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with several different meanings! Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. To Take Something Into Your Care/Life (Most Common)

  • Meaning: To formally choose to accept and care for something (or someone) as your own.
  • Examples:
    • "The shelter adopted a new puppy yesterday." (Taking in an animal)
    • "She adopted a new diet to improve her health." (Taking on a new habit)
    • “The company adopted a new policy regarding remote work.” (Implementing a new rule)
    • "He adopted the boy after his parents passed away." (Taking legal responsibility for raising a child)

2. To Officially Accept or Approve of Something

  • Meaning: To formally approve or accept a plan, idea, or law.
  • Examples:
    • "The committee adopted the proposal for a new building." (Officially approving a plan)
    • "The country adopted a new constitution." (Officially accepting a legal document)
    • "The government adopted measures to combat inflation." (Formally enacting policies)

3. To Take on a Behavior or Style

  • Meaning: To start behaving or dressing in a certain way, often influenced by someone else.
  • Examples:
    • "He adopted his grandfather’s mannerisms." (Took on the way he acted)
    • "She adopted a more casual style of dress.” (Started dressing differently)
    • "The teenager adopted a cool, urban slang." (Adopted a way of speaking)

4. (In Genetics) To Inherit Genes

  • Meaning: To receive genes from a parent. This is a more technical usage.
  • Example: "Humans adopt half of their genes from their mothers and half from their fathers."

5. (As a Verb - Less Common, More Formal)

  • Meaning: To take up or embrace a cause, belief, or position. This often implies a strong commitment.
  • Examples:
    • "The organization adopted a stance against climate change." (Formally taking a position)
    • “He adopted a philosophy of non-violence.” (Embraced a particular belief)

Key Differences & How to Tell Which Meaning is Intended

  • Context is Crucial: The surrounding words and the overall situation will usually make the meaning clear.
  • "Care for" (or similar words) indicates taking something into your life.
  • "Approved," "accepted," or “policy” indicate a formal decision.
  • “Style” or "mannerisms" indicates behavior or appearance.

Here's a quick chart to summarize:

Meaning Example
Taking Care of The animal shelter adopted a kitten.
Officially Approve The council adopted the new zoning laws.
Style/Behavior He adopted a more relaxed attitude.
Genetics Humans adopt genes from their parents.

Resources for Further Learning:

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  • What kind of sentence are you trying to write? (e.g., about animals, a business decision, a personal habit?)

Synonyms for the word adopt

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