Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective adaptable contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of adaptable are ductile, malleable, plastic, pliable, and pliant. While all these words mean "susceptible of being modified in form or nature," adaptable implies the capability of being easily modified to suit other conditions, needs, or uses.

computer hardware that is adaptable

When is it sensible to use ductile instead of adaptable?

While in some cases nearly identical to adaptable, ductile applies to what can be drawn out or extended with ease.

ductile metals such as copper

When would malleable be a good substitute for adaptable?

In some situations, the words malleable and adaptable are roughly equivalent. However, malleable applies to what may be pressed or beaten into shape.

the malleable properties of gold

In what contexts can plastic take the place of adaptable?

The words plastic and adaptable are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, plastic applies to substances soft enough to be molded yet capable of hardening into the desired fixed form.

plastic materials allow the sculptor greater freedom

When can pliable be used instead of adaptable?

The synonyms pliable and adaptable are sometimes interchangeable, but pliable suggests something easily bent, folded, twisted, or manipulated.

pliable rubber tubing

When is pliant a more appropriate choice than adaptable?

The meanings of pliant and adaptable largely overlap; however, pliant may stress flexibility and sometimes connote springiness.

an athletic shoe with a pliant sole

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of adaptable Think Beyond Basic Functionality Your kitchen island can serve multiple purposes and is a highly adaptable feature for storage, seating, and more, says Vyanca Soto of Market Studio Interiors. Blake Bakkila, Sunset Magazine, 28 Oct. 2024 Deliverability entails creating adaptable systems and processes that allow businesses to pivot when challenges arise. Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 27 Oct. 2024 In today’s rapidly changing work landscape, leaders must be adaptable and open to new working methods. Steve Osler, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024 The question is, how widely adaptable is HB Antwerp’s model? Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 31 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for adaptable 

Thesaurus Entries Near adaptable

Cite this Entry

“Adaptable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adaptable. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

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