Translation guide
The English verb 'adopt' covers several distinct actions: legally taking a child as one's own, taking on a method or policy, choosing a name or title, and formally accepting a proposal. Japanese uses different verbs for each meaning, and the most common translations are 養子にする for child adoption and 採用する for adopting methods or systems.
To become the legal parent of a child who is not biologically one's own.
The most common and general way to say 'adopt a child'. 養子 means 'adopted child'.
They adopted an orphan.
A more formal or legal term for the act of adoption, often used in official contexts.
We went through the adoption procedures.
Means 'to take in' or 'to take custody of', often used for fostering or taking in a relative's child, not necessarily formal adoption.
We took in a relative's child and raised them.
To begin to use a particular approach, technique, or set of rules.
The standard verb for adopting a method, system, policy, or technology. Also used for hiring people.
They adopted a new teaching method.
The company has adopted a flextime system.
Means 'to incorporate' or 'to bring in', often used for ideas, customs, or elements from elsewhere.
Means 'to introduce' or 'to implement', often used for new systems, technologies, or equipment.
We plan to adopt the new system next month.
To start using a particular name or title for oneself or something.
To officially agree to a suggestion or plan, often in a committee or organizational setting.
To assume a certain behavior or stance, often deliberately.
Both can translate 'adopt', but 採用する is for methods, systems, or hiring people, while 採択する is specifically for formally adopting resolutions or proposals in meetings.
養子にする is only for adopting a child. Using it for adopting a method or policy would be incorrect and confusing.
I have adopted Japanese culture into my life.
She uses her maiden name at work. (She has adopted her maiden name professionally.)
The board of directors adopted the new business plan.
彼女は冷静な表情を見せた。
She adopted a calm expression.