ENGLISH
REFERENCE

adjustable

adj.
US //əˈdʒəstəbəɫ// UK //ɐdʒˈʌstəbəl// ad·justable
  1. 1 capable of being changed (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    able to be changed in size, position, or level to fit your needs.

    capable of being modified or regulated to achieve a desired fit, function, or state.

    Example

    The office chair has an adjustable seat so you can sit at the right height.

    Example

    The technician recommended an adjustable mounting bracket to ensure the solar panels could be tilted toward the sun as the seasons changed.

    Usage

    Typically used before a noun or after a linking verb like 'is' or 'seems'.

    Teacher's tip

    Learners often confuse this with 'adaptable'; explain that 'adjustable' usually refers to physical parts or settings, while 'adaptable' often refers to people or abstract systems.
Origin

From adjust + -able.

© 2026 English Reference