"Adapt" and "adopt" can be confusing in that they are both verbs with somewhat similar meanings, but they are not interchangeable and are properly used in different contexts.
When one "adapts," he or she makes someone or something suitable for a different purpose or environment. For example, if one is moving from a hot climate like California to a cold climate like Alaska, he or she .
might "adapt" for the colder weather by buying a heavy winter coat. One "adapts for" something, but does not "adapt by" something.
When one "adopts," he or she takes something and makes it their own. For example, to adopt a child is to bring a child into one's family that was not previously there.
More Reference Links: http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/ http://www.cws.illinois.edu/workshop/writers/
