# pliable

/ˈpɫaɪəbəɫ/ (US) · /plˈaɪəbəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pliable
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

easy to bend or shape without breaking, like soft clay or thin wire. You also use it for a person who adapts easily to new ideas or rules.

For teachers: easily bent, shaped, or influenced without breaking or resisting. Extends from physical materials to people, plans, or opinions that adapt readily to change.

## Examples

- This soft clay is pliable and easy to shape.
- The leather is still pliable enough to fold around the frame without cracking.
- Good leaders remain pliable in negotiation, adjusting their positions without abandoning core principles when new evidence emerges.

## Synonyms

flexible, Supple, malleable, adaptable, pliant, bendable

## Antonyms

stiff, rigid, inflexible

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.