ENGLISH
REFERENCE

durable

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈdʊɹəbəɫ// UK //djˈɔːɹəbəl// durable

adj. strong and able to last for a long time without breaking or wearing out. You use this to describe things like clothes, tools, or materials that stay in good condition.

adj. able to withstand wear, pressure, or damage; long-lasting. Often used to describe physical goods or materials that maintain their integrity over time.


SIMPLE

These boots are made of durable leather.

CONTEXTUAL

The manufacturer uses durable plastics to ensure the toys can survive years of heavy play.

COMPLEX

While the initial investment in durable equipment is higher, the long-term savings in maintenance and replacement costs often justify the expenditure for growing businesses.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English durable, from Old French durable, from Latin dūrābilis (“lasting, permanent”), from dūrō (“harden, make hard”).

Usage

Typically precedes the noun it modifies or follows a linking verb like 'be' or 'seem'.

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