Word
adaptable
Phoneticsadapt·able
US/əˈdæptəbəɫ/
UK/ɐdˈæptəbəl/
Definition
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.
Examples
“She is very adaptable and handles new challenges well.”
“The new office software is highly adaptable, allowing each department to customize the interface for their specific needs.”
“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.”
Examples
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'.
Real-World Examples
“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.” “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.” Etymology
From adapt + -able.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/adaptable