adoptar
Lemma Details
Translation: to adopt; to take on; to assume; to embrace; to take up
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: From Latin 'adoptare', composed of 'ad-' (to, toward) and 'optare' (to choose, wish for). The English cognate 'adopt' shares the same Latin root. The concept in both languages conveys the deliberate choice or selection of something or someone, particularly in the context of taking a child into one's family legally.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 90%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Decidieron adoptar a un niño de cinco años.
They decided to adopt a five-year-old boy.
El gobierno adoptó nuevas medidas contra la contaminación.
The government adopted new measures against pollution.
Es importante adoptar buenos hábitos alimenticios.
It's important to adopt good eating habits.
La empresa adoptó una nueva estrategia de marketing.
The company adopted a new marketing strategy.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'adopt' in English with an '-ar' ending for the Spanish infinitive form.
- Remember that 'adoptar' can refer to both adopting a child and adopting ideas or habits - in both cases, you're 'taking something on' as your own.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, adoption (adopción) has become more common and accepted in recent decades, though there may still be some stigma in more traditional communities. The legal process varies by country but is generally regulated by government agencies to ensure the welfare of the child.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'adoptar' means 'to adopt' (take on or choose something), 'adaptar' means 'to adapt' (modify something to fit a new purpose or situation).
Confused word:
Tuvimos que adaptar la receta para hacerla sin gluten.
We had to adapt the recipe to make it gluten-free.
Notes: Both verbs involve change, but 'adoptar' is about taking something as is, while 'adaptar' is about modifying something to fit.
Mnemonic: 'Adoptar' has an 'o' like 'adopt', while 'adaptar' has an 'a' like 'adapt'.
Explanation: 'Adoptar' means to take on something (like a child, habit, or position), while 'adquirir' means to acquire or obtain something (usually through purchase or effort).
Notes: 'Adoptar' often implies an emotional or identity connection, while 'adquirir' is more transactional.
Mnemonic: Think of 'adquirir' as related to 'acquire' in English - getting something new.