portability

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "portability" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the ability of a product or service to be easily transferred or used in different locations or environments. Example: "The portability of this device makes it ideal for travelers who need to work on the go."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

This appears to be a response to growing US demand, but could also reflect opium paste's portability compared with large bricks of marijuana.

The Guardian

Younger disabled people were hoping that the document would offer a clear commitment to "portability" of entitlement to care and support – that is, a right to move from one local authority area to another and retain the same services.

The Guardian

It proposes portability of one's assessment of need, but not necessarily a guarantee of the same services to meet that need.

The Guardian

If Netflix were a cable channel, its subscription revenues in 2013 would put it third in America behind ESPN and HBO, according to MoffettNathanson, a research firm.Comcast has responded by trying to resemble the firms that could unseat it, offering more interactivity, personalisation and portability.

The Economist

The unprecedented choice and portability means iPod users listen to music for far more of their time.

The Economist

Parts of the industry are collaborating in a "data portability workgroup" to let people move their friend lists and other information around the web.

The Economist

Sector benders"Power Hitters, Industry Switchers"Chris Liddell, the newly installed finance chief of General Motors, could be the poster boy for the portability of finance skills.

The Economist

Something called "mobile number portability" was introduced in October, making Japan the last of the developed nations to let its citizens keep their mobile-phone numbers when they switch from one operator to another.

The Economist

Notwithstanding the "death of distance" caused by modern communications and by the portability of "new-economy" businesses along with the creators of their intellectual property, place has never been more important.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

In America, for instance, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) introduced security standards for personal health data.

The Economist

3. HIPAA refers to the "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act". 4. With thanks to Laura Odwazny, J.D., Department of Health and Human Services ,Senior Counsel to OHRP. 5. See Amazon's Mechanical Turk.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing software, emphasize "portability" by specifying which platforms or operating systems the software can run on.

Common error

Avoid using "portability" when you actually mean "mobility". "Portability" refers to the ability to transfer something, whereas "mobility" refers to the state of being mobile or able to move around easily.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "portability" is as a noun. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, denoting the quality or state of being portable. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples illustrating its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "portability" is a noun signifying the quality of being easily moved or transferred. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage across various domains, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. Its meaning relates to the adaptability and convenience afforded by something's ability to be moved or transferred efficiently. The phrase is grammatically sound, and its usage is versatile, applying to various subjects from software to legal concepts. When aiming for clarity, consider whether ""transferability"" or "mobility" might be more precise depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

transferability

Highlights the quality of being transferable.

transportability

Stresses the capability of being transported.

mobility

Emphasizes the ability to move easily from one place to another.

ease of transfer

Focuses on the action of transferring something easily.

ease of movement

Highlights how easy it is to move something.

adaptability

Stresses the capacity to adjust to new conditions or environments.

convenience of transport

Focuses on how convenient something is to transport.

flexibility

Emphasizes the quality of being adaptable and versatile.

capacity for relocation

Highlights the ability to relocate something.

lightweight design

Specifically highlights the design aspect that allows for easy carrying.

FAQs

How is "portability" used in technical contexts?

In technical fields like software development, "portability" refers to the ability of software or code to run on different platforms or operating systems with minimal changes. It ensures wider usability and reduces platform dependency.

What is "data portability" and why is it important?

"Data portability" refers to the ability of users to transfer their data between different services or platforms. This is crucial for enhancing user control, promoting competition among service providers, and preventing vendor lock-in.

What are some synonyms for "portability" in the context of computer programs?

In the context of computer programs, you can use synonyms like "transferability", "compatibility", or "platform independence" to describe the ability of a program to run on multiple systems.

In what ways does "portability" enhance convenience?

"Portability" enhances convenience by allowing users to easily move or transfer items, services, or information between different locations, devices, or systems. This flexibility saves time and effort, making tasks more efficient.