adaptar

Adaptar is a verb in Spanish and Portuguese that means to modify or adjust something so that it fits new conditions, needs, or purposes. It is typically transitive, used with a direct object and often with the preposition a or para (adaptar algo a/para algo). In both languages it is a regular -ar verb.

Etymology: Adaptar derives from Latin adaptare, formed from ad- “toward” and aptare “to fit, adjust.” The term reflects the sense of making something suitable for a different context or requirement.

Usage: In arts and media, adaptar a work to a different medium, such as adaptar una novela a una película. In technology or business, adaptar software, hardware, or processes to new platforms, standards, or market conditions. In biology and everyday language, adaptar describes the process of becoming suited to a new environment or situation; the reflexive form adaptarse is common to express the act of adjusting oneself. The related noun forms are adaptación (Spanish) and adaptação (Portuguese).

Notes: Adaptar is often contrasted with other verbs such as ajustar (to fine-tune or calibrate) or modificar (to modify in a broader or more general sense). The term also yields nouns and adjectives, such as adaptación/adaptação (the act or result of adapting) and adaptable (capable of being adapted).