accommodate
uh-KOM-uh-dayt
/əˈkɒmədeɪt/
To provide space, seating, or special arrangements for a guest or group.
Implies making thoughtful adjustments to meet specific guest needs, such as group size or dietary restrictions.
The story behind the word. From Latin accommodare, built from ad- (to) and commodus (suitable, convenient). Originally meant to adapt one thing to another smoothly. By the 17th century, it expanded to providing suitable food or space for guests.
Word relationships
- fit: 'Fit' refers strictly to physical dimensions, while 'accommodate' includes helpful service and flexibility.
- reject: 'Reject' means turning away a request or guest entirely.
Commonly confused with
- contain: 'Contain' suggests enclosing something, while 'accommodate' implies hospitable adaptation.
Word family
- accommodation (noun): A convenient arrangement or lodging.
- accommodating (adjective): Helpful and willing to adapt to guest needs.
Collocations
- accommodate a request
- accommodate dietary needs
- accommodate a large party
- easily accommodate
Idioms & expressions
- bend over backwards
Example sentences
- "The manager assured us that the dining room could accommodate our party of twelve without difficulty." Group booking
Memory hook
ACCOMMODATE has two C's and two M's — plenty of room to ACCOMMODATE extra letters! Adapt and make room for guests.
When not to use
Do not use when describing fixed, unyielding situations where no flexibility exists.
Fun facts
- 'Accommodate' is consistently ranked among the top ten most frequently misspelled words in business English.
Related words
Explore more words
accommodating, adapt, acclimatize, adaptive, compromise, adaptable
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.