"Flexable" is a misspelling of the term "flexible." "Flexible" is an English adjective that describes the ability to bend, adapt, or change easily without breaking or losing its original shape or integrity. It can be used in various contexts, and its primary meaning is related to the idea of being able to adjust or adapt to different situations or requirements.
Here are some ways to understand the meaning of "flexible":
- Physical flexibility: When talking about objects or materials, "flexible" means that they can bend, stretch, or twist without breaking. For example, rubber is a flexible material because it can be stretched and returns to its original shape.
- Adaptability: In a more abstract sense, "flexible" describes a person's or organization's ability to adapt to changing circumstances or to be open to new ideas and approaches. A flexible person can adjust their plans or behavior as needed, while a flexible company can easily adapt to market changes.
- Versatility: Something that is flexible can serve multiple purposes or be used in various ways. For instance, a flexible tool or software can be customized to perform different tasks.
- Open-mindedness: A person who is described as flexible in their thinking is willing to consider different perspectives, opinions, or solutions, rather than being rigid or set in their ways.
Through the Google Books Ngram Viewer, we can see that flexible has a much higher use than its misspelling flexable in Google’s database of published books in both American and British English since the year 1800.
The misspelling of "flexible" as "flexable" likely occurs due to several factors:
- Phonetic similarity: The pronunciation of "flexible" and "flexable" can be quite similar. In spoken English, they sound almost identical. People who are not familiar with the correct spelling may rely on how the word sounds when attempting to write it.
- Common English spelling patterns: In English, words ending in "-ible" or "-able" often have similar meanings, and this is a common spelling pattern. Words like "credible," "sensible," and "comfortable" follow this pattern. So, someone might incorrectly apply this pattern to "flexable" because it seems consistent with other words they know.
Example sentences
- The yoga instructor demonstrated her incredible flexibility by effortlessly bending into complex poses.
- The rules of the game were flexible, allowing players to come up with creative strategies.
- In order to accommodate everyone's schedules, we need to be flexible with the meeting time.
- The rubber band is flexible, making it easy to stretch and use for various purposes.
- Sarah's work hours are flexible, which allows her to balance her job and personal life effectively.
- The company's policies are flexible when it comes to remote work arrangements.
- A flexible budget allows for adjustments to be made in case of unexpected expenses.
- To excel in today's job market, it's essential to be adaptable and flexible in your skills and approach.
- The gymnast's flexibility was evident as she gracefully contorted her body during her routine.
- Our travel plans are flexible, so we can adjust our itinerary if we come across interesting opportunities along the way.
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