durable

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective durable contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of durable are lasting, permanent, and stable. While all these words mean "enduring for so long as to seem fixed or established," durable implies power to resist destructive agencies.

durable fabrics

When would lasting be a good substitute for durable?

In some situations, the words lasting and durable are roughly equivalent. However, lasting implies a capacity to continue indefinitely.

a book that left a lasting impression on me

When is permanent a more appropriate choice than durable?

While in some cases nearly identical to durable, permanent adds usually the implication of being designed or planned to stand or continue indefinitely.

permanent living arrangements

When could stable be used to replace durable?

The meanings of stable and durable largely overlap; however, stable implies lastingness because of resistance to being overturned or displaced.

a stable government

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Cite this Entry

“Durable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/durable. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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