WordGarden.iousable
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /jˈuːzəbəl/
US
- /ˈjuzəbəl/
Meanings
Adjective
able to be used; good enough for practical use
Beyond the definition
Something is usable when it is not broken, not too damaged, and not too hard to work with. It is ready for the job it is meant to do. Think of a well-worn tool in a carpenter's workshop. It may have scratches and dents from years of use, but if it still does the job, it is still usable.
The word also suggests practicality. A fancy sports car stuck in the mud is not very usable at that moment, even if it still works. A prototype design is only usable when it meets basic standards for function and safety. You might say a website with broken links is not usable, or that a recipe with unclear instructions is not usable.
The word "usable" describes something capable of being used effectively for its intended purpose. It goes beyond simply being functional; it implies a degree of practicality and accessibility. A machine might be technically working, but if it's too complicated to operate or requires specialized training, it may not be considered truly usable by the average person.
The concept of "usability" is particularly important in fields like design and technology. User experience (UX) and interface (UI) designers strive to create products—websites, apps, software—that are intuitive and usable, meaning they're easy for people to learn and operate without frustration. A website with a confusing layout or slow loading times isn't considered usable.
"Usable" can also refer to resources. A piece of land might be described as "usable" if it's suitable for building, farming, or other types of development. Similarly, data is only usable if it's accurate, organized, and accessible.
Think about a spare tire in your car. It's there for emergencies, making the car more usable overall, even though you hopefully won't need to use it often. Or consider an old but reliable pair of boots—they might not be stylish, but if they still keep your feet dry and comfortable, they're definitely usable.
Ultimately, "usable" signifies that something is fit for purpose, practical, and readily available for someone to employ in a meaningful way.
Examples
- 1
Old device
The old laptop is slow, but it's still usable.
- 2
Furniture
We found a few usable chairs in the storage room.
- 3
Mobile website
The website is finally usable on mobile.
- Patternusable on mobile
works properly on phones
- 4
Workplace guide
Could you make this guide more usable for new employees?
- Patternusable for + person/group
easy or suitable enough for them to use
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Rough draft
The first draft isn't great, but it's usable.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- user-friendly
- operational
- practicable
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- usable condition
- usable format
- usable interface
- usable space
Word family
Explore
- accessibility
- fit for purpose
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- usableadjective