versatile
VUR-suh-tul
/ˈvɜːrsətl/
Able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities.
Focuses on having a wide range of skills or uses, being multi-talented or multi-functional.
The story behind the word. From Latin versatilis 'turning, revolving, moving,' from versare (to turn frequently), frequentative of vertere (to turn). A versatile person or tool can easily 'turn' to face any new task.
Word relationships
- adaptable: Adaptable means able to change to fit new situations, while versatile means already possessing multiple functions.
- specialized: Specialized means designed or trained for only one specific task.
Commonly confused with
- flexible: Flexible means able to bend without breaking; versatile means able to perform entirely different roles.
Word family
- versatility (noun): The quality of being versatile.
Collocations
- versatile actor
- versatile tool
- highly versatile
Idioms & expressions
- jack of all trades
Example sentences
- "Swiss Army knives are famous for being versatile tools that can handle dozens of tasks." Product design
Memory hook
A versatile person can 'turn' (verse) their attention to 'all' (tile) tasks with ease. Able to turn to any task.
When not to use
Do not use to describe someone who is simply agreeable; they must possess diverse, active capabilities.
Fun facts
- In botany, a 'versatile' anther is one that is swung freely on its filament, allowing pollen to be easily dispersed by the wind.
Explore more words
adaptable, multifaceted, adaptability, adaptive, flexible, resourceful
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