3 uses
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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
- In spite of imagination and poetry—perhaps on account of them—she could sympathise with the technical attitude that Henry would adopt.Chapter 37 (94% in)
- It is necessary to prepare for an examination, or a dinner-party, or a possible fall in the price of stock: those who attempt human relations must adopt another method, or fail.Chapter 7 (50% in)
- Charles thought the habit laudable, though he did not intend to adopt it himself, whereas Margaret would have seen in it an almost culpable indifference to earthly fame.Chapter 11 (43% in)
There are no more uses of "adopt" in Howards End.
Typical Usage
(best examples)