Is acclimate formal or informal?

It is fairly formal and common in written English. In speech, many people say get used to.

What is the difference between acclimate and adapt?

Acclimate usually means getting used to a new environment or climate. Adapt is broader and can mean changing for any new situation.

Can I say acclimate to a new job?

Yes, but it sounds a little formal. Many speakers would say adjust to a new job.

← Dictionary

acclimate

/ˈæk.lɪ.meɪt/

IELTSAcademic

verb

To get used to a new place, climate, situation, or condition. It is often used for people, animals, or things adapting over time.

It took me a week to acclimate to the heat.
She acclimated quickly to her new office.
Plants need time to acclimate after transplanting.

Adinary Nuance

Acclimate is about gradual adjustment to a new environment, especially weather, altitude, or living conditions. It is close to adapt and adjust, but it sounds more like physical or environmental change. In academic and formal writing, it is often used instead of the more everyday get used to.

In other languages

Vietnamese: thích nghi
Spanish: aclimatarse
Chinese: 适应
Japanese: 順応する
Korean: 적응하다

Etymology

Acclimate comes from French acclimater, based on Latin clima, meaning “climate.” It entered English in the 19th century.

Common phrases

acclimate to the climateacclimate to new surroundingsacclimate quicklytime to acclimate

Synonyms

adapt adjust get used to

Frequently asked questions

Is acclimate formal or informal?: It is fairly formal and common in written English. In speech, many people say get used to.
What is the difference between acclimate and adapt?: Acclimate usually means getting used to a new environment or climate. Adapt is broader and can mean changing for any new situation.
Can I say acclimate to a new job?: Yes, but it sounds a little formal. Many speakers would say adjust to a new job.