Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective adaptable contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of adaptable are ductile, malleable, plastic, pliable, and pliant. While all these words mean "susceptible of being modified in form or nature," adaptable implies the capability of being easily modified to suit other conditions, needs, or uses.

computer hardware that is adaptable

When is it sensible to use ductile instead of adaptable?

While in some cases nearly identical to adaptable, ductile applies to what can be drawn out or extended with ease.

ductile metals such as copper

When would malleable be a good substitute for adaptable?

In some situations, the words malleable and adaptable are roughly equivalent. However, malleable applies to what may be pressed or beaten into shape.

the malleable properties of gold

In what contexts can plastic take the place of adaptable?

The words plastic and adaptable are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, plastic applies to substances soft enough to be molded yet capable of hardening into the desired fixed form.

plastic materials allow the sculptor greater freedom

When can pliable be used instead of adaptable?

The synonyms pliable and adaptable are sometimes interchangeable, but pliable suggests something easily bent, folded, twisted, or manipulated.

pliable rubber tubing

When is pliant a more appropriate choice than adaptable?

The meanings of pliant and adaptable largely overlap; however, pliant may stress flexibility and sometimes connote springiness.

an athletic shoe with a pliant sole

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of adaptable Wolves are extremely adaptable, according to Luigi Boitani, co-author of the new study and chair of a European large carnivore specialist group at the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Species Survival Commission. Olivia Ferrari, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 Apr. 2025 This evolutionary change offers a new understanding of how resilient and adaptable traits can be in an ever-changing environment. Stephanie Edwards, Discover Magazine, 23 Apr. 2025 Carpenter's go-to makeup look — characterized by flushed cheeks, fluttery lashes and rosy lips — must also be adaptable. Catherine Santino, People.com, 23 Apr. 2025 No matter where your travels take you, your vacation outfits need to be adaptable for your activities and for the weather. Rylee Johnston, Travel + Leisure, 17 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for adaptable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adaptable
Adjective
  • The Netherlands international had been a versatile option under Klopp, but Liverpool’s new head coach had different ideas about him.
    Andy Jones, New York Times, 29 Apr. 2025
  • Advances in recent years have made solar panels one of the cheapest and most versatile sources of electricity.
    Suwanna Gauntlett Upjohn, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The device uses microneedles and flexible wiring to capture neural signals just beneath the skin, enhancing signal quality while minimizing invasiveness.
    Charlie Fink, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Want a new career that’s higher-paying, more flexible or fulfilling?
    Kamaron McNair, CNBC, 18 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Adaptable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adaptable. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on adaptable

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