Flexible
/ˈflɛksəbəl/
Definitions
2 meaningsCapable of bending or being bent easily; adaptable; receptive to change.
/ˈflɛksəbəl/
Capable of bending easily without breaking.
The yoga class helps improve flexibility.
💡 Simply: Imagine you can touch your toes easily! That's because you're flexible, meaning your body can bend without breaking. Also, imagine your plans change, and you can adjust easily – that’s another kind of flexible!
👶 For kids: Being able to bend easily without breaking, like a rubber band!
More Examples
We need a flexible approach to meet the changing demands.
The flexible hose connects the faucet to the sink.
The company offers flexible working hours.
How It's Used
"The flexible pipe allows for movement without compromising the seal."
"A flexible gymnast can perform complex routines with ease."
Capable of adapting to new situations; willing to make changes or compromises; open to new ideas.
/ˈflɛksəbəl/
Willing to change or compromise.
The manager is flexible and willing to accommodate employee requests.
💡 Simply: Imagine your plans change suddenly, and you’re totally cool with it. You're flexible! You're able to go with the flow and adjust to whatever happens. You might want to change a trip to the beach because of rain to a trip to the movies instead; That’s flexibility at work!
👶 For kids: Being able to change your mind or plans easily, like when you want a different snack.
More Examples
The company has a flexible return policy.
We need a flexible schedule to accommodate everyone.
The new software is designed with a flexible interface.
How It's Used
"The company is looking for flexible employees who can adapt to new roles."
"The negotiators showed a flexible attitude, allowing for a compromise."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
Flexible hours
A work schedule that is not fixed but can be adjusted to suit the employee's needs.
"The company offers flexible hours to promote a good work-life balance."
Flexible spending account (FSA)
A special account used for health or dependent care expenses, where money is taken out of your paycheck before taxes are deducted. Often used as a type of benefit from an employer.
"Many companies offer a flexible spending account to help employees cover their healthcare expenses."
From Latin *flexibilis*, from *flectere* 'to bend'. The word entered English in the late 14th century.
Historically used to describe things that bend and stretch. It later became a common characteristic for business, and management, etc.
Memory tip
Think of a rubber band - it bends and stretches, representing flexibility.