English Reference
Adjective

adaptable

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /əˈdæptəbəɫ/ UK /ɐdˈæptəbəl/ adapt·able

adj.able to change easily to fit new situations or different conditions.

adj.capable of being modified or adjusted to suit different conditions or purposes. Often used to describe individuals who manage change effectively or tools with multiple applications.


SIMPLE

She is very adaptable and handles new challenges well.

CONTEXTUAL

The new office software is highly adaptable, allowing each department to customize the interface for their specific needs.

COMPLEX

In an increasingly volatile global market, the most successful corporations are those with adaptable business models that can pivot in response to sudden technological shifts.

Usage

Typically used as a gradable adjective; often follows linking verbs like 'be', 'become', or 'remain'.

It’s amazing, and I’m very, very excited to play.” Asked about adapting quickly to his move, he said: “I think I’m very adaptable.

The Guardian· 19 Aug 2026

However, new research from the University of Vaasa in Finland suggests AI may actually help employees become more engaged and adaptable when they view the technology as a useful partner rather than a threat.

ScienceDaily· 25 May 2026

From adapt + -able.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated