flexible
Definitions
Able to bend or be bent easily without breaking
可弯曲的，柔韧的
Able to change or adapt readily to different conditions; willing to compromise
灵活的，可变通的，能适应的
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedflex (bend) + -ible (able to be) = able to be bent. The physical idea (a flexible wire) extends naturally to plans and people: a flexible schedule bends to fit your life; a flexible person adapts instead of breaking.
Root flex still carries 4 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.flexible schedule灵活的时间表
- 2.flexible approach灵活的方法
- 3.flexible working hours弹性工作时间
- 4.remain flexible保持灵活
Example Sentences
- 1.
These plastic tubes are flexible and won't crack in the cold.
- 2.
We offer flexible working hours to fit your schedule.
- 3.
Try to stay flexible if the plans change at the last minute.
Easily Confused
flexible vs adaptable — Both mean 'able to change,' but flexible stresses willingness to bend on the spot (flexible hours, a flexible attitude), while adaptable stresses the ability to adjust well to new conditions over time (an adaptable species, an adaptable employee). Bend now → flexible; adjust to survive → adaptable.
Synonym Comparison
- flexible — bends easily; willing to adjust
- adaptable — able to adjust well to new conditions
- versatile — able to do many different things well
- elastic — springs back to shape after stretching
- pliable — easily bent or shaped (often of materials or people)