Both Uses of
adopt
in
Crime and Punishment, by Dostoyevsky
- Excuse the natural anxiety of a practical law-abiding citizen, but couldn't they adopt a special uniform, for instance, couldn't they wear something, be branded in some way?†
Chpt 3.5adopt = take on as one's own
- Thanks to the official's efforts, this plan was adopted, the policeman even helping to carry Katerina Ivanovna.†
Chpt 5.5 *adopted = took on as one's own
Definition:
to take on as one's own
The exact meaning of adopt depends upon its context. For example:
- "adopt a child" -- to legally take on parental responsibilities for another person's child
- "adopt a plan" -- to accept or begin to use something
- "adopt a pet" -- to take in a pet -- especially one from an animal shelter
- "Congress adopted the resolution." -- had a formal vote and passed
- "adopted a confident attitude" -- took on or displayed