Synonyms for

Adopting

Verb / ʌˈdɑ:ptɪŋ / Another word for adopting — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To take something on as your own. To become the parent of a child that is not biologically yours.

Synonyms & similar words

espouse takeon takein assume takeup borrow dramatise take embrace dramatize takeover follow adopt acquire sweepup embrace accept assume start begin undertake shoulder bear foster nurture rear raise support sponsor advocate champion espouse

Synonyms by register

Formal

embracing assimilating acquiring undertaking

Informal

taking on picking up getting into

Literary

espousing engaging

Antonyms

rejecting discarding abandoning renouncing forsaking disowning

Common collocations

  • adopting a child
  • adopting a policy
  • adopting a stance
  • adopting a new habit
  • adopting a pet
  • adopting a strategy
  • adopting a lifestyle

Word family

noun adoption
verb adopt
adjective adoptive

Usage note

While 'adopting' can mean taking something on, it is most commonly associated with the legal process of taking a child into one's family. Be mindful of context to avoid ambiguity.

Example sentences

  1. Our family is adopting a baby from China.
  2. He is adopting a healthier lifestyle by eating more vegetables and exercising regularly.
  3. The company is adopting new policies to improve employee satisfaction.
  4. She is adopting a new kitten from the animal shelter.
  5. The city is adopting a plan to reduce pollution.

Quotes

  • Adopting one child won't change the world: but for that child, the world will change. -Unknown
  • Adopting one animal may not change the world, but for that animal, their world will change forever. -Unknown
  • Adopting one child won't change the world, but for that child, the world will change. -Unknown

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words