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 It’s been interesting: what this job has demanded from me is that ability to be pragmatic and adaptable. Jeff Rueter, The Athletic, 22 Nov. 2024 Over the course of the last few weeks, the royal demonstrated her proclivity for adaptable fashion. Julia Teti, WWD, 20 Nov. 2024 Unisex yet adaptable, the Hikelite 26 is now offered with a wider and taller frame for a more inclusive fit. Outside Online, 11 Nov. 2024 Researchers were able to conduct CT scans of the fossil, which revealed insights into the arthropod’s adaptable head and appendages. Ashley Strickland, CNN, 2 Nov. 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 3 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on adaptable

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