adaptable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adaptable" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something or someone that is able to adjust to new conditions or changes. Example: "The adaptable nature of the software allows it to function seamlessly across different platforms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And it has proven enormously adaptable: look at the gap between General Motors and Monorail.Yet this very adaptability points to another truth: that the corporation will surely become ever less corporate.

The Economist

This shows how adaptable public services have been so far, and, the fact that, in historic terms, that when retrenchment began they were relatively fully funded.

The Guardian

Never mind, their own adaptable consciences are clear.

The Guardian

You'll need to be adaptable, able to write for different audiences and aware of appropriate tones, messaging and mediums.

The Guardian

Equally challenging is the prime minister's strategy of negotiating a "new settlement" with a reformed Europe that is "more flexible, more adaptable, more open".

The Guardian - Opinion

The presence of leopards living alongside humans is a case of two highly adaptable species sharing space, says Athreya, who calls the animals "living ghosts" for their ability to be elusive.

The Guardian

In our years of working in Haiti, we've shown that humanure composting is easily adaptable, and you don't need to rely on custom-made or imported equipment.

The Guardian

Showing that Android Wear is just as adaptable on a smartwatch as Android is on a smartphone, Wear Mini Launcher is a custom application launcher for your watch.

The Guardian - Tech

Peter Wilding, director of the Centre for British Influence, said: "We support the prime minister's call for a more 'flexible adaptable and open Europe' and we will need positive partnership to achieve that, not threatened exit".

The Guardian

That Britain's national interest is best served in a flexible, adaptable and open European Union.

The Guardian

Part of the answer is that the coyote is clever, extremely adaptable and reproduces quickly.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing people, use "adaptable" to highlight their ability to learn and adjust to new environments and challenges, showcasing their resilience and open-mindedness.

Common error

Avoid using "adaptable" to describe something being adapted, as it inherently implies an active ability to adjust. Instead, focus on what makes something capable of being adapted.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "adaptable" primarily functions to describe the capacity or ability to adjust readily to new conditions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to qualify nouns, highlighting their potential for change and responsiveness. Examples show its use in contexts ranging from technology to personal characteristics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Formal & Business

26%

Science

26%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "adaptable" is a versatile adjective used to describe the capacity to adjust to new conditions. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and widely used across various domains, including news, business, and science. Its synonyms include "flexible" and "versatile". When writing, use "adaptable" to emphasize the positive quality of being able to change easily and avoid using it in passive contexts. This guide provides practical advice and addresses common questions to help you use "adaptable" effectively and accurately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flexible

Focuses on the ability to bend or change without breaking, implying a responsiveness to different conditions.

versatile

Highlights the capacity to be used for many different purposes or in many different situations.

malleable

Emphasizes the ability to be easily influenced or shaped.

adjustable

Focuses on the capacity to be changed or modified to suit particular needs or circumstances.

pliable

Stresses the ease with which something can be bent or influenced.

resourceful

Implies the ability to find clever ways to overcome difficulties, showing adaptability through problem-solving.

changeable

Highlights the tendency to vary or alter, suggesting a readiness to adopt new forms or behaviors.

responsive

Indicates an ability to react quickly and positively to new situations or problems.

accommodating

Focuses on the willingness to fit in with someone's needs or wishes.

tractable

Emphasizes the ease of being managed or controlled, showing adaptability through obedience.

FAQs

How can I use "adaptable" in a sentence?

"Adaptable" is used to describe something or someone capable of adjusting to new conditions. For instance, "The software's "flexible" design makes it highly adaptable to different operating systems."

What are some synonyms for "adaptable"?

Alternatives to "adaptable" include "flexible", "versatile", and "adjustable". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "adaptable" and "adaptive"?

"Adaptable" describes a capacity to adjust, while "adaptive" refers to the process or result of adapting. For example, an "adaptable" person has the potential to adapt, and an "adaptive" strategy is one that has been adjusted to fit new circumstances.

Is it correct to say something is "easily adaptable"?

Yes, saying something is "easily adaptable" is grammatically correct and emphasizes the ease with which it can be modified or adjusted. It's a valid way to describe a system or person that readily adapts to change.