flexible

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/ˈflɛksəbəl/
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Able to bend, change, or adapt without difficulty.
Practice using flexible in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • We had to be flexible when the venue changed.
  • The designer chose a strong but flexible material.
  • My working hours are flexible, so I can start earlier.
  • Are these panels flexible, or will they crack under pressure?
  • The plan is flexible enough to include late arrivals.

Similar words

accommodating
springy
open-minded
bendable
amenable
elastic
versatile
limber
supple
adaptable

Meanings

Able to bend

adjective
physical
neutral
Able to bend easily without breaking, including a body that can move through a wide range.

Examples

  • This cable is flexible enough to bend around the corner.
  • Yoga has made her shoulders more flexible.
  • The frozen hose was no longer flexible.
  • Are these panels flexible, or will they crack under pressure?
  • The designer chose a strong but flexible material.

Similar words

bendable
pliable
supple
limber
elastic
springy

Able to adapt

adjective
everyday
neutral
Able or willing to change according to different needs or conditions.

Examples

  • My working hours are flexible, so I can start earlier.
  • We had to be flexible when the venue changed.
  • The plan is flexible enough to include late arrivals.
  • Could you be more flexible about the deadline?
  • Their policy was not flexible enough for unusual cases.

Similar words

adaptable
adjustable
versatile
accommodating
open-minded
amenable

Etymology

From Middle English flexible, through Old French from Latin flexibilis, meaning able to be bent, from flectere, meaning to bend.

FAQ

What does flexible mean?

Flexible means able to bend without breaking or able and willing to adapt to change.

How do you pronounce flexible?

Flexible is pronounced /ˈflɛksəbəl/ in General American English.

What is a flexible schedule?

A flexible schedule can be adjusted when times, needs, or circumstances change.

Can a person be flexible?

Yes. A physically flexible person bends easily, while a mentally flexible person adapts readily.

What is the opposite of flexible?

Rigid or stiff is the opposite for materials, while inflexible is common for plans and attitudes.

Where does flexible come from?

Flexible came through Old French from Latin flexibilis, based on a verb meaning to bend.

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