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flexible

B2
Common

Pronunciation

UK

  • /flˈɛksɪbəl/

US

  • /ˈflɛksəbəl/

Meanings

Adjective

  1. able to bend without breaking

  2. able or willing to change to fit different needs or conditions

Beyond the definition

Think of a willow tree bending in the wind – that's flexible! It means being able to adapt easily to new situations or changes. A flexible person is open-minded and can adjust their plans when things don't go as expected. You might describe a yoga instructor as flexible, both physically and mentally. Sometimes it refers to materials – like plastic, which is much more flexible than glass.

If your boss asks you to take on an unexpected project, being flexible means saying "yes" and figuring it out, rather than getting upset about the change of plans. A flexible schedule allows you to work when and where you're most productive. It's a valuable trait in a world that's constantly changing!

Examples

  1. 1

    Footwear

    These shoes are light and flexible, so they're comfortable for walking.

  2. 2

    Changing plans

    She's very flexible and stays calm when plans change.

  3. 3

    Work rules

    My manager is flexible about start times as long as the work gets done.

    • Patternflexible about + rule/opinion

      willing to change your usual rule or opinion

  4. 4

    Deadlines

    Can we be a little flexible with the deadline if the client sends new changes?

    • Patternflexible with + deadline/plan

      willing to adjust it

More examples
  1. 5

    Course design

    The course is flexible enough for people with full-time jobs.

    • Patternflexible enough for + person/situation

      suitable because it can be adjusted

  2. 6

    Schedule

    He has a flexible schedule, so afternoons are usually best for meetings.

  3. 7

    Project planning

    We took a flexible approach to the project instead of following a strict plan.

  4. 8

    Thinking

    Children are often more flexible in their thinking than adults.

See also

Similar

Shades of meaning

Contrast

Used with (collocations)

  • flexible schedule
  • flexible hours
  • flexible approach
  • be flexible about

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Forms and spellings

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Main spelling

  • flexibleadjective