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 Rather than being a single, static population, Treg cells are highly adaptable. Mitzi Nagarkatti, The Conversation, 10 Oct. 2025 In today’s world of totally unpredictable weather the adaptable, mobile hunters win the day. Alex Robinson, Outdoor Life, 9 Oct. 2025 Its materials are designed to be affordable, portable, and adaptable across settings. Jason Phillips, USA Today, 9 Oct. 2025 The Solimar is an adaptable runner whose shape and functionality were inspired by the easy, rolling waves of Southern California’s Solimar Beach. Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 7 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for adaptable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adaptable
Adjective
  • Peru’s cumbia family dynasty Grupo 5, Puerto Rico’s versatile Guaynaa, Argentina’s cuartetazo force Luck Ra, Puerto Rican merengue queen Olga Tañón and Cuba’s rising reparto sensation Bebeshito will discuss how their respective genres have the power to cross borders.
    Leila Cobo, Billboard, 14 Oct. 2025
  • Choose from versatile fall shades like camel, tan, black and chestnut.
    Nora Colomer may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom., FOXNews.com, 14 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The adjustable strap allows for wear around your waist orshoulders.
    Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 10 Oct. 2025
  • Other features like adjustable legs, zero clearance, and headboard brackets will help the frame fit into your space.
    Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 10 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The rubber also features patches of non-slip material to keep you steady while staying flexible with every step.
    Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 10 Oct. 2025
  • Eric, a firefighter, worked shifts every third day, while Claire ran her own concrete coatings business with a flexible schedule.
    Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 10 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Adaptable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adaptable. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on adaptable

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