# workable

/ˈwɝkəbəɫ/ (US) · /wˈɜːkəbəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/workable
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

describing a plan, idea, or system that is practical and can actually be done in real life.

For teachers: capable of being put into practice or producing the desired effect. Often used to describe solutions or compromises that are realistic rather than perfect.

## Examples

- We need to find a workable solution to this problem.
- After hours of negotiation, the two teams finally reached a workable agreement that satisfied both budgets.
- While the theoretical model was elegant, the engineers struggled to translate it into a workable prototype that could withstand the pressures of mass production.

## Usage notes

- Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'seem' or 'become'.'

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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.