to be flexible

USAGE SUMMARY

"to be flexible" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to suggest the ability to be easily adapted or to change, usually in a positive way. For example: "In this job, it's important to be flexible and able to manage different tasks and situations quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Advisers have to be flexible.

The New York Times

"We have to be flexible".

The New York Times

It has to be flexible.

The New York Times - Sports

"You have to be flexible.

The New York Times

Mr Dimas may need to be flexible.

The Economist

To be flexible and open to change.

The New York Times

You have to be flexible and adaptive.

The New York Times

It also pays to be flexible.

Independent

"You have to be flexible," he said.

The New York Times

"But we have to be  flexible".

The New York Times

The service has to be flexible.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to be flexible", ensure the context clearly indicates what area or aspect requires flexibility. For instance, specify "to be flexible with deadlines" or "to be flexible in your approach" to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "to be flexible" as a standalone statement without specifying the area of flexibility. Vague uses can make your writing less impactful. Instead, clarify the specific context where flexibility is needed to enhance clarity and meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be flexible" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it describes a desired state or quality. It's often used to express a recommendation, necessity, or capability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Academia

31%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to be flexible" is a versatile and frequently used infinitive phrase that emphasizes adaptability and the willingness to adjust to changing circumstances. As validated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for diverse contexts, ranging from news and media to academic writing. Remember to provide context when using this phrase to avoid ambiguity and maximize impact. Consider alternatives such as ""to be adaptable"" or ""to be versatile"" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be adaptable

Emphasizes the ability to adjust to new conditions or circumstances.

to be versatile

Highlights the capability to perform a variety of tasks or functions.

to be resilient

Focuses on the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

to be accommodating

Stresses the willingness to adjust to someone's wishes or needs.

to be open-minded

Highlights a readiness to consider new ideas or perspectives.

to be pliant

Suggests being easily influenced or directed, often implying a willingness to yield.

to be malleable

Emphasizes the ability to be shaped or molded, often in a figurative sense.

to be compliant

Focuses on adhering to rules or requests, implying a submissive attitude.

to be tractable

Highlights being easily managed or controlled, similar to "pliant" but slightly stronger.

to roll with the punches

Informal idiom meaning to adjust to difficulties.

FAQs

How can I use "to be flexible" in a sentence?

You can use "to be flexible" to express the need for adaptability. For example, "It's important "to be flexible" when managing unexpected changes in a project".

What are some alternatives to "to be flexible"?

Alternatives include "to be adaptable", "to be versatile", or "to be resilient", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "to be flexible" or "to have flexibility"?

Both are correct, but "to be flexible" (an infinitive) describes a quality or characteristic, while "to have flexibility" (noun) refers to possessing the ability to adapt. The choice depends on your sentence structure and emphasis.

What does it mean when someone says you need "to be flexible" in a job?

It generally means you need to be ready to handle different tasks, adapt to changing priorities, and be open to new approaches. It highlights the importance of adaptability in the workplace.