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 The study, published in Nature Biomedical Engineering, showcases how everyday materials can be reimagined to offer adaptable and accessible vaccine solutions. New Atlas, 9 Aug. 2025 Without an accessible, adaptable model that serves diverse needs, the U.S. risks ceding the AI frontier to China by default. Dewardric L. McNeal, CNBC, 8 Aug. 2025 The layered media—a script, a dramatic performance, a film, a video on YouTube—offer a sense of how the New York School has proved adaptable to evolving tastes and technologies. Dan Chiasson, New Yorker, 4 Aug. 2025 Implications: 529 accounts now serve not just as college savings plans but as comprehensive education savings vehicles adaptable to a variety of academic and professional needs. Ashley Lutz, Fortune, 28 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for adaptable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for adaptable
Adjective
  • So as your peruse your garden this summer, be on the lookout for this versatile and satisfying treat.
    Khalil AlHajal, Freep.com, 14 Aug. 2025
  • With good baseball instincts, and with enough athletic ability to be a versatile player, Isaac Collins has the ability, the baseball demeanor, and the confidence to continue to contribute to the winning Milwaukee Brewers team culture.
    Bernie Pleskoff, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Further discussions in London and Stockholm made enough progress for the two sides this week to announce another extension of the ceasefire, with the White House praising Beijing for being cooperative and flexible in the negotiations to date.
    Scott Kennedy, Time, 16 Aug. 2025
  • Andy Naylor Scott Parker is aiming to be flexible and adaptable with his system this season.
    James McNicholas, New York Times, 15 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Adaptable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adaptable. Accessed 19 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on adaptable

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