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Synonym Chooser

How is the word affable different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of affable are cordial, genial, gracious, and sociable. While all these words mean "markedly pleasant and easy in social intercourse," affable implies easy approachability and readiness to respond pleasantly to conversation or requests or proposals.

though wealthy, she was affable to all

Where would cordial be a reasonable alternative to affable?

The words cordial and affable are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, cordial stresses warmth and heartiness.

our host was cordial as he greeted us

When can genial be used instead of affable?

The words genial and affable can be used in similar contexts, but genial stresses cheerfulness and even joviality.

a genial companion with a ready quip

When would gracious be a good substitute for affable?

The synonyms gracious and affable are sometimes interchangeable, but gracious implies courtesy and kindly consideration.

the gracious award winner thanked her colleagues

In what contexts can sociable take the place of affable?

While the synonyms sociable and affable are close in meaning, sociable suggests a genuine liking for the companionship of others.

sociable people who enjoy entertaining

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 affable The protagonist, an affable but unmotivated computer store employee, decides to quit his job to pursue new opportunities to better support his son and divorced wife. Vulture Editors, Vulture, 24 Sep. 2025 Now the Phils are desperate to keep the affable and articulate Ohio native, who has cultivated a reputation as a clubhouse leader and terrific teammate. Dan Schlossberg, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025 An affable dad who avoids divisive topics like politics and religion in favor of gentler, autobiographical material that tends to cast him as a well-meaning fool, the Tennessee native is also the rare comic capable of appealing to, or at least not actively alienating, a broad swathe of viewers. Judy Berman, Time, 15 Sep. 2025 Glenn Martens, creative director, Diesel and Maison Margiela The affable Belgian designer rose to fashion fame thanks to his 11-year stint helming Y/Project, accruing a reputation for his experimental approach and earning a cult following for his twisted constructions. Wwd Staff, Footwear News, 10 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for affable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for affable
Adjective
  • Stockholders will receive $210 per share, representing a 25 per cent premium on share price at market close on September 25 — the final unaffected trading day, before reports of a deal surfaced.
    Ali Rampling, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025
  • Advertisement Fish seem unaffected as well.
    Matt Fuchs, Time, 29 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The flagship offers an expansive collection of wallcoverings, rugs, furniture, and more, and aims to capture the welcoming, gracious environment the brand is known for while signaling its evolution.
    Sydney Gore, Architectural Digest, 29 Sep. 2025
  • But these aren’t gods in oh-so-gracious robes or with armor or holding lightning bolts in their hands.
    David Lyman, Cincinnati Enquirer, 27 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Owner and innkeeper John Lavin took over the three-story home, built in 1890, in 2021, and the property continues to charm guests with its creative design, hospitable amenities, and home-away-from-home atmosphere.
    Lydia Mansel, Southern Living, 29 Sep. 2025
  • Meanwhile, recent increases in overnight temperatures in Texas may have made the region more hospitable to tropical species, which could explain green jays’ expansion north, according to Keitt.
    Amanda Schupak, CNN Money, 29 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The soft, stretchy fabric and elastic waistband keep them comfortable, while the sleek design works for fitness classes, errands, or even a casual night out.
    Jacqueline Tempera, PEOPLE, 5 Oct. 2025
  • The onboard 6-watt speaker delivered good enough quality for casual use and is loud enough for a small to medium-sized family room.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 5 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Customer service was easy and pleasant.
    Kristi Kellogg, Architectural Digest, 5 Oct. 2025
  • Stierli is particularly concerned with the situation at Great Falls, where trails and picturesque cliffsides along the Potomac River attract many visitors, especially with this weekend’s pleasant weather.
    Brian Todd, CNN Money, 4 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • On his way to the field, Mark likes to listen to mellow tunes from Rufus Du Sol and Tame Impala, his favorite artist.
    Evan Burke, Billboard, 22 Sep. 2025
  • Get the recipe > The mellow sweetness of summer corn and lobster meat harmonize beautifully in this ultimate summer soup.
    SAVEUR Editors, Saveur, 4 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Located in historic downtown Gainesville, the Victorian complex is a nice breather before and after the intensity of game day in Gainesville, and the drive to the stadium is less than 10 minutes.
    Skye Sherman, Southern Living, 3 Oct. 2025
  • Napheesa will probably sit this one out, but Bryce still has time to send his commish a nice greeting card.
    Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 3 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • As a director, Black has an easygoing way with banter and plot.
    Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 30 Sep. 2025
  • Her soft, shaggy lob is easygoing and effortless—a departure from her past looks, which were heavy, messy-on-purpose blowouts.
    Grace McCarty, Glamour, 30 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Affable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/affable. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.

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