WordGarden.ioflexibility
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /flˌɛksɪbˈɪlɪti/
US
- /ˌflɛksəˈbɪləti/
Meanings
Noun
the ability to change or adapt when needed
the ability of the body or joints to bend and move easily
the quality of bending easily without breaking
Beyond the definition
Flexibility isn't just about being able to touch your toes! It's the ability to bend, literally or figuratively, without breaking. A willow tree is flexible, bending in the wind instead of snapping. People show flexibility when they are willing to compromise, adjust to new situations, or think about things in a different way. Think of a jazz musician making up a solo on the spot; that's musical flexibility. Or a cook swapping one ingredient for another because something is missing; that's another kind of flexibility.
The word comes from "flectere," a Latin root meaning "to bend." You might describe a gymnast as having great physical flexibility, but you can also say someone is flexible in their thinking, meaning they are open-minded and willing to change their views. A company that's flexible adapts well to changes in the market. It's about being able to adjust when life doesn't go as planned.
Flexibility describes the quality of being easily bent or shaped, both physically and metaphorically. In a physical sense, it refers to the range of motion in your joints, or how far you can stretch and bend without injury. A yoga instructor might emphasize improving flexibility through regular practice. "She demonstrated remarkable flexibility during her gymnastics routine."
However, flexibility extends far beyond the physical realm. It also describes the ability to adapt easily to new conditions or circumstances. A flexible schedule allows for changes as needed. A flexible mindset means being open to different ideas and perspectives.
You might say a company is "flexible in its policies," meaning they are willing to adjust them based on employee needs. Or, "He showed flexibility when he agreed to reschedule the meeting." This adaptability is crucial for success in a rapidly changing world.
Flexibility can also refer to a willingness to compromise or be tolerant. A flexible negotiator is more likely to reach an agreement than someone rigid and uncompromising. "They approached the negotiations with a spirit of flexibility."
So, whether it's about bending your body, adjusting your plans, or opening your mind, flexibility is all about being adaptable, resilient, and able to handle change with grace and ease. It's a valuable trait in everything from physical fitness to personal relationships to professional success.
Examples
- 1
Physical ability
Yoga has improved her flexibility, especially in her back and shoulders.
- 2
Work schedule
One reason I took this job was the flexibility to choose my own hours.
- Patternflexibility to + verb
freedom to do it
- 3
Travel plans
We need some flexibility in our travel plans in case the weather changes.
- 4
Rule changes
The manager showed flexibility and let him start later on Fridays.
- Patternshow flexibility
be willing to change the usual rule or plan
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Negotiation
Both sides will need some flexibility if they want to reach an agreement.
- 6
Housing choice
Renting instead of buying gives us more flexibility if we decide to move next year.
- 7
Teaching software
The software gives teachers flexibility in how they organize their lessons.
- 8
Leadership
Good leaders need the flexibility to change course when the situation changes.
See also
Similar
- adaptability
- versatility
- adjustability
Shades of meaning
- elasticity
- open-mindedness
- room to maneuver
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- scheduling flexibility
- workplace flexibility
- mental flexibility
- flexibility to change plans
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- flexibilitynoun
Forms
- flexibilitiespluralnoun