adoptive

/ə'dɔptiv/

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Explanation of "Adoptive"

Definition:
The word "adoptive" is an adjective that describes something that is related to adoption. When we say "adoptive," we are talking about parents or families that have chosen to take in a child who is not biologically theirs, making that child part of their family through a legal process.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "adoptive" to describe relationships or situations involving adoption.
• It is often used before nouns, such as "adoptive parents" or "adoptive family."

Examples:

1. Adoptive Parents: "My adoptive parents gave me a wonderful life."
2. Adoptive Family: "She loves her adoptive family just as much as her biological family."

Advanced Usage:

In more complex discussions, "adoptive" can also refer to broader concepts, such as "adoptive environments" in psychology, where one might refer to settings where individuals or ideas are embraced and nurtured, similar to how adopted children are welcomed into families.

Word Variants:

• Adopt: The verb form meaning to take something (especially a child) as one's own.
• Adoption: The noun form referring to the process of adopting a child.

Different Meanings:

• "Adoptive" specifically relates to adoption. It doesn’t have other meanings, but it is closely related to terms like "foster" (temporary care) and "biological" (related by blood).

Synonyms:

• Adopted (when used as a past participle)
• Chosen (in a broader sense, though it may not directly relate to family)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that use "adoptive," the concept of adoption can appear in phrases such as: - "Adopt a new attitude" which means to take on a new way of thinking or behaving, although this is metaphorical and not related to family adoption.

Summary:

"Adoptive" is a word used to describe families or relationships formed through the process of adoption. It highlights the choice made by parents to welcome children into their lives, regardless of biological ties.

Academic

Adjective

1. acquired as your own by free choice
   • my adopted state
   • an adoptive country
2. of parents and children; related by adoption
   • adoptive parents

Synonyms

• adopted