WordGarden.iocompatible
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /kəmpˈætəbəl/
US
- /kəmˈpætəbəl/
Meanings
Adjective
able to exist, fit, or work together without conflict
well suited to another person, especially in a relationship
able to work with a particular computer, program, device, or file format
More meaningsFewer meanings
suitable for safe biological matching, such as blood, tissue, genes, or organisms
Beyond the definition
Imagine building with LEGOs. Some bricks just click together perfectly—they're compatible! This means they work well together, fitting in easily without forcing anything. Compatibility isn't just for toys, though. Two people can be compatible if their personalities mesh well, and two computer programs are compatible if they can share information smoothly. If your phone charger isn't compatible with your new phone, you're out of luck! It all comes down to things working together harmoniously.
The word "compatible" describes the ability of two or more things to exist or work together without conflict. It suggests a natural harmony and suitability. Think of it like puzzle pieces—compatible pieces fit perfectly, while incompatible ones don't.
Compatibility shows up in many contexts. In relationships, it refers to having similar values, interests, and personalities that allow people to connect easily. "They were highly compatible and quickly fell in love."
In technology, compatibility means different devices or software can interact with each other. "This printer is not compatible with my computer's operating system." This often requires specific drivers or standards to be met.
Beyond relationships and tech, you might say two ideas are compatible—meaning they are consistent and do not contradict each other. Or, you might find that a certain diet is compatible with your lifestyle, meaning it fits into your daily routine without causing disruption.
At work, "compatible" can mean someone’s work style fits with the group. A boss might say, "I'm not sure his work style is compatible with our team." This isn't necessarily about liking or disliking someone; it's simply acknowledging that their approaches don't blend well.
So, whether you're talking about love, technology, ideas, or lifestyles—if things can coexist and function smoothly together, they are considered compatible.
Examples
- 1
Device support
This keyboard is compatible with most laptops.
- Grammar
Use "compatible with," not "compatible to."
- 2
App requirements
Make sure the app is compatible with your phone before you download it.
- 3
Personalities
We work well together because our personalities are compatible.
- 4
Work-life balance
The job's long hours aren't compatible with family life.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Company values
His decision was not compatible with the company's values.
- 6
Software versions
The new software is backward compatible, so it can still open older files.
- Phrasebackward compatible
able to work with older versions
See also
Similar
- consistent
- well matched
- congruent
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- compatible with
- backward compatible
- compatible software
- compatible values
Word family
- compatibility
- compatibly
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- compatiblenounadjective
Forms
- compatiblespluralnounadjective