# usability

/jˌuːzəbˈɪlɪti/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/usability
Updated: 2026-07-22

## Definition

how easy and pleasant a tool or website is to use. If something has good usability, you can understand how it works without getting frustrated.

For teachers: the degree to which a product, system, or interface can be used by specified consumers to achieve quantified objectives with effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction.

## Examples

- The new app design focuses on better usability.
- The development team conducted several rounds of testing to identify usability issues that were confusing new customers during the checkout process.
- While the software offers a comprehensive suite of advanced features, its poor usability often discourages novice users from exploring beyond the most basic functions.

## Usage notes

- Often paired with 'testing' or 'design' to describe the process of making products more user-friendly.

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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.