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Pliable - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Pliable means easily bent, flexible, or adaptable. It describes materials that can be shaped without breaking or people who are open to influence or change. Example: Clay is pliable when wet.

pliable

/ˈplaɪəbəl/ /ˈplaɪəbl̩/

Definition:

Easily bent or shaped without breaking; adaptable or flexible in character.

Synonyms:

Flexible, malleable, adaptable, supple, bendable

Part of Speech:

Adjective

Antonyms:

Rigid, inflexible, unyielding

Common Collocations:

Pliable material, pliable mind, pliable wire, pliable leather

Derivatives:

Pliability, pliably

Usage Tips:

Use "pliable" to describe objects that bend easily or people who adapt readily to change.

Common Phrases:

Pliable as clay, pliable to persuasion, pliable under pressure

Etymology:

From Old French *ploier* (to bend) and Latin *plicare* (to fold).

Examples:

  • 1. The clay is soft and pliable for sculpting.
  • 2. Her pliable nature makes her easy to work with in teams.
  • 3. The branches were still green and pliable after the storm.
  • 4. He has a pliable mind that welcomes new ideas.

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