ADAPTABLE Synonyms: 60 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

adaptable

adjective

ə-ˈdap-tə-bəl

Definition of adaptable next

as in versatile

able to do many different kinds of things an activities director who's adaptable to any kind of situation

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in adjustable

capable of being readily changed the caterer's menu is adaptable to specific dietary needs, such as vegan, kosher, or low-fat

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 company believes that directional borehole disposal could provide robust and deep isolation for many types of radioactive waste, provide flexibility in repository siting, as well as allow for modular implementation adaptable to specific waste management programs and inventories. —

Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 5 Feb. 2026 Access to a diverse, adaptable, and open workforce willing to upskill is critical to success. —

Abdulla Belhoul, Fortune, 4 Feb. 2026 Even the most adaptable vehicles cannot safely make the tip on the rugged terrain. —

Mark Price, Charlotte Observer, 4 Feb. 2026 Still, these plants are extremely adaptable and can also perform well in medium light. —

Rachel Gillett, Martha Stewart, 31 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for adaptable

Recent Examples of Synonyms for adaptable

Adjective

Thankfully, the silhouette is the epitome of trendy, offering a versatile design that includes a side swish, contrasting textiles, and bold colors.

— Ruby McAuliffe, InStyle, 7 Feb. 2026
Loveappella Roll-Top Maxi Skirt Maxi skirts are especially versatile, and this roll-top style by Loveappella can easily stay in your weekly closet rotation through every season.

— Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 7 Feb. 2026

Definition of versatile

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adaptability

adaptable

adaptation

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“Adaptable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/adaptable. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

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Last Updated: 11 Feb 2026 - Updated example sentences

Synonyms of adaptable

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