"Adapt" vs. "adjust": when to use each word

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 04/10/2025, 22:53

English.me team member

Adapt and adjust. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "adapt" and "adjust" refer to making changes in response to new conditions or situations. They involve altering behavior, objects, or processes to better fit different circumstances.

What is different?

"Adapt" often implies a larger or more fundamental change to become suitable for a new environment or purpose, while "adjust" usually refers to small or minor changes to improve fit or function. "Adapt" can be used for both people and things, especially in terms of long-term or significant changes, whereas "adjust" is more often short-term or incremental changes.

Which one is more common?

Examples of usage

Adapt

Animals must adapt to their environment to survive.
She had to adapt to a new culture after moving abroad.
The company adapted its products for the Asian market.

Adjust

He adjusted his tie before the meeting.
You may need to adjust the seat to reach the pedals comfortably.
After a few days, she adjusted to the city's fast pace.