acclimatise - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
acclimatise Word Meanings
- to adjust to a new climate
- to adapt to different conditions
- to become accustomed to a new environment
acclimatise Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
acclimatise Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈklaɪ.mə.taɪz/
US
/əˈklaɪ.mə.taɪz/
acclimatise Word Etymology
(a) prefix 'ac-' + root 'climat' from French; (b) the word originates from Latin 'acclimatus', through Old French 'acclimater' to English; (c) Picture yourself traveling up a mountain, slowly adapting to the thin air and colder temperatures as you acclimatise to the heights.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Acclimatise means to adjust gradually to a new climate or environment. It describes the process of becoming more comfortable as you adapt to different temperatures, humidity, altitude, or seasonal patterns. Physiologically, people may acclimate to high altitude by producing more red blood cells, while behaviorally you adjust clothing, routines, or outdoor activities to suit the conditions. The term is more common in British English, where acclimatise is preferred over acclimate in formal writing, though both spellings are understood. It can be transitive or intransitive depending on whether the subject acclimatises themselves or others do. The word derives from Latin acclimatus via Old French acclimater, with the prefix ac- linked to climat from French.
Usage Reminders
- British spelling is acclimatise; American English uses acclimate.
- Use acclimatise for gradual adaptation to climate or environment, not quick changes.
- It can take a direct object (acclimatise the body) or be intransitive (the body acclimatises).
- Common collocations: climate, altitude, environment, conditions.
- Noun forms: acclimatisation, acclimatisation.
- Be aware of related phrases like acclimate to the climate.
Common Misconceptions
- It means rapid change, which is wrong; acclimatisation is gradual.
- Confusing acclimate with acclimatise due to regional spellings.
- Thinking it only applies to climate, not other environments.
- Assuming it always involves physiological changes.
- Mixing up with acclimation in sports or animals.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker that acclimatise emphasizes gradual, ongoing adaptation to climate or environment, highlighting that it can be physical or behavioral.
Learning Tips
- Learn both spellings acclimatise and acclimate and note where you write them.
- Think of acclimatise as gradual adaptation to climate or environment.
- Use with climate, altitude, environment, or conditions.
- Pair with verbs like adjust, adapt, or get used to.
- Practice with real-life contexts like moving to a mountain town or hot country.
- Noun form: acclimatisation or acclimation.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of acclimatise?
A.To travel to a new place
B.To become accustomed to a new environment or situation
C.To neglect one's responsibilities
D.To create something new
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct use of the word acclimatise in a sentence.
A.You should acclimatise the cake before serving it.
B.It takes time to acclimatise when learning a new language.
C.In winter, I need to acclimatise my car's engine to work properly.
D.I decided to acclimatise my wardrobe for the summer.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to acclimatise?
A.adapt
B.ignore
C.resist
D.forget
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of acclimatise?
A.reject
B.accept
C.enhance
D.enjoy
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where one might need to acclimatise?
A.She felt refreshed after returning from the vacation.
B.He decided to ignore the warnings about the weather changes.
C.When moving to a new country, it takes time to adjust to the local customs.
D.The mountain air was thin, but she thrived in the altitude.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App