flexible
FLEK-suh-bul
/ˈflɛksəbl̩/
Capable of bending easily without breaking; willing to change or compromise.
Applies equally to physical pliability and open-minded willingness to adjust schedules, opinions, or plans.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'flexibilis', derived from 'flectere' (to bend). The ancient Romans used it to describe young willow branches and copper wire. By the late 16th century, English writers adapted it to describe people whose minds were open to persuasion.
Word relationships
- pliable: Pliable often carries a subtle negative overtone of being too easily influenced, while flexible is generally positive or neutral.
- supple: Supple focuses on graceful, fluid physical movement or soft texture, whereas flexible applies broadly to mental and physical states.
- inflexible: Inflexible means rigid and entirely unyielding to force or argument.
- rigid: Rigid denotes stiff, unbending structure or uncompromising mental stubbornness.
Commonly confused with
- reflexive: Flexible means able to bend; reflexive means done automatically without conscious thought.
Word family
- flexibility (noun): The quality of bending easily without breaking.
- flex (verb): To bend or tighten a muscle.
Collocations
- flexible schedule
- flexible approach
- flexible material
- remains flexible
Idioms & expressions
- bend over backward
- keep options open
Example sentences
- "I am flexible in my arrangements, always willing to alter my plans when the comfort of others requires it." Classic Victorian dialogue on personality and compromise
- "The company introduced flexible working hours, allowing parents to adjust their daily routines around childcare." Modern work scheduling
Memory hook
FLEX-ible: like flexing a muscle or bending a twig without breaking it. Bend without breaking under stress.
When not to use
Avoid using as a synonym for submissive weakness; flexibility is considered a strength, not passivity.
Fun facts
- The root 'flectere' also gives us 'reflect' (to bend light back) and 'deflect' (to bend away from a path).
Explore more words
flexibility, malleable, adaptability, mutable, versatile, adaptive
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