Word
agile
Phoneticsag·ile, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈædʒəɫ/
UK/ˈædʒaɪl/
Definitions
01moving quickly and easily
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. able to move your body quickly and easily.
adj. characterised by physical dexterity, grace, and the ability to move with speed and ease.
“The agile cat jumped from the floor to the top of the high shelf.”
“Despite his age, the mountain guide remained remarkably agile, navigating the rocky terrain with effortless precision.”
02software/project management
B2 · Upper Intermediate Computing Technical
adj. using a way of working that breaks a big project into small parts so you can make changes quickly.
adj. relating to a methodology of project management, especially in software, characterised by the division of tasks into short phases and frequent reassessment.
“Our team uses agile methods to finish software updates every two weeks.”
“Adopting an agile approach allowed the development team to respond to user feedback in real-time rather than waiting for a final release.”
Usage
Often capitalised as 'Agile' when referring to the specific methodology.
Teaching tip
In business contexts, this is often contrasted with 'Waterfall' project management.
Antonyms
03the methodology
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Computing Technical · Academic
n. the name for a fast, flexible way of managing projects.
n. the philosophy or practice of agile software development.
“The company decided to switch to agile to improve their productivity.”
“The transition to agile required a complete shift in the department's culture and communication style.”
Usage
Used as an uncountable noun to describe the system itself.
Teaching tip
This noun use is common in corporate environments but less frequent in general conversation.
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“Like everything else in this show it’s agile, slotting into place without heavy effort.” “Quick, comfortable, roomy, and agile for a large electric SUV.” Etymology
From earlier agil, borrowed from Latin agilis (“agile, nimble”), from agō (“do, act; move”). See agent.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
Domain
- 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
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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