**Understanding the Difference Between Adopted and Adoptive: A Simple Guide**

**Understanding the Difference Between Adopted and Adoptive: A Simple Guide**

A Clever Trick to Remember the Difference

Imagine “adopted” as referring to someone who has been brought into a family, and “adoptive” as referring to the family that has taken in the adopted person.

Adopted: A Brief History and Usage

“Adopted” comes from the Latin word “adoptare,” meaning ‘choose for oneself.’ It is used to describe someone who is made part of a family that they were not born into.

Examples:

1. The couple adopted a kitten from the animal shelter.
2. Sarah always felt loved and cared for by her adopted parents.
3. He learned about his adopted heritage when he turned 18.
4. Isabella is excited to meet her adopted sister for the first time.
5. Many families choose to adopt children from different countries.

Adoptive: A Brief History and Usage

“Adoptive” is an adjective that is used to describe something related to or involving adoption, such as an adoptive parent or adoptive family.

Examples:

1. His adoptive mother always supported his dreams and aspirations.
2. The adoptive parents provided a loving home for the siblings.
3. She felt grateful for her adoptive family’s kindness and understanding.
4. The community celebrated National Adoptive Families Day.
5. They attended an adoptive parenting workshop to learn more about the process.

Summary

Adopted: Used to describe a person who has been made part of a family they were not born into.
Adoptive: Used to describe something related to or involving adoption, such as a family or parent.