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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective flexible contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of flexible are elastic, resilient, springy, and supple. While all these words mean "able to endure strain without being permanently injured," flexible applies to something which may or may not be resilient or elastic but which can be bent or folded without breaking.

flexible plastic tubing

Where would elastic be a reasonable alternative to flexible?

While in some cases nearly identical to flexible, elastic implies the property of resisting deformation by stretching.

an elastic waistband

When would resilient be a good substitute for flexible?

Although the words resilient and flexible have much in common, resilient implies the ability to recover shape quickly when the deforming force or pressure is removed.

a resilient innersole

When is it sensible to use springy instead of flexible?

The words springy and flexible are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, springy stresses both the ease with which something yields to pressure and the quickness of its return to original shape.

the cake is done when the top is springy

When could supple be used to replace flexible?

The words supple and flexible can be used in similar contexts, but supple applies to something that can be readily bent, twisted, or folded without any sign of injury.

supple leather

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of flexible Its long legs and flexible neck gave it the ability to browse at multiple heights, not unlike a modern giraffe. Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 10 May 2025 Designers of low-quality goods have no motive to produce something that's flexible enough to look good year after year. Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 May 2025 City leaders can strengthen and expand efforts to ensure Local Law 97 succeeds by swiftly deploying an NYC Green Building Fund — a revolving loan fund that will provide flexible, low-interest loans to buildings to finance decarbonization projects. Jonathan Bowles, New York Daily News, 9 May 2025 This compact kit includes a mix of waterproof, antibacterial, and flexible bandages to cover whatever comes your way. Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 9 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for flexible
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flexible
Adjective
  • Inspired by Spain’s vibrant tapas scene, Bulla’s brunch is all about shareable bites, bold flavors and a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere — perfect for honoring Mom.
    Amy Drew Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 May 2025
  • Summer can be one of the best times to adopt a dog, thanks to the warm weather, later sunsets, and relaxed vibe that ease pets and humans into training and bonding.
    Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025
Adjective
  • The case looks great on its own to my eyes, with a two tone finish consisting of faux-leather and plastic frame that snaps onto the Vivo X200 Ultra.
    Ben Sin, Forbes.com, 4 May 2025
  • And Michael Martinez now drives his brother’s highlighter-yellow Jeep, which includes the countless plastic ducks received in his brother’s memory.
    Dan Belson, Baltimore Sun, 2 May 2025
Adjective
  • The following year Turkish mill Bossa launched Endless Blue, a line of stretch denim fabrics made with the regenerated cellulose fiber.
    Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 28 Apr. 2025
  • The reality is, high performers thrive on stretch goals.
    Mark Murphy, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Its adaptable, low-profile design fits into a variety of spaces without the bulk of traditional units.
    Jon Stojan, USA Today, 10 May 2025
  • Approaching your home as a flexible, adaptable space will keep it from ever looking outdated.
    Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 May 2025
Adjective
  • Theo Wargo / FilmMagic 3d ago / 3:34 PM PDT Share Zendaya spotted on red carpet Viola Flowers Zendaya has arrived in an all-white suit with floppy white hat and a small, silver snake detail on the upper back of the suit jacket.
    Angela Yang, NBC news, 6 May 2025
  • Zendaya arrived in the definition of tailored with an all-white suit and matching white floppy hat.
    Jenifer Calle, Glamour, 6 May 2025
Adjective
  • Lawn Maintenance Maintaining the lawn is key to reducing clover, a hardy and resilient plant, from cropping up and keeping the turf the right height.
    Lauren David, Southern Living, 11 May 2025
  • While there was a win in terms of how resilient the North American power grid was in the face of the storm, the agriculture industry took a hit as vulnerabilities with GPS systems that help guide tractors were exposed when the solar storm reached Earth.
    Meredith Garofalo, Space.com, 10 May 2025
Adjective
  • The 19 Best White Hydrangeas for Your Garden The 12 Best Pruning Shears to Keep Your Garden in Check In early spring, hydrangea produce fresh, slightly pliant new growth known as softwood, which make excellent cuttings for propagating.
    Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Political parties have been dissolved by a pliant judiciary.
    Sun Narin, New York Times, 7 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • This can reduce your risk of straining muscles while also leveling up your performance, since your tissues are more pliable and ready to work, Dr. Yu explains.
    Jenny McCoy, SELF, 1 May 2025
  • Every seam, hole, etc. was sealed with a gasket or with a special acoustic caulk that stays pliable for decades.
    Tim Carter, Hartford Courant, 19 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Flexible.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flexible. Accessed 17 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on flexible

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