Acceptable: meaning, definitions and examples

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acceptable

[əkˈsɛptəbəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in a certain context

able to be agreed on; suitable or pleasing

Synonyms

adequate, all right, passable, satisfactory, tolerable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
acceptable	Used when something meets the minimum standard or expectation but may not be outstanding. The quality of the food was acceptable The proposal was acceptable to everyone in the meeting
satisfactory	Used when something meets the required standards and is acceptable, but not outstanding. The results of the test were satisfactory Her explanation was satisfactory and met the teacher's expectations
tolerable	Used when something is just bearable or endurable, often with a negative connotation. The noise from the construction was barely tolerable The heat was tolerable, but still uncomfortable
adequate	Used when something is sufficient or enough for a specific purpose, but not necessarily excellent. The shelter provided adequate protection from the storm His performance was adequate for the job requirements
passable	Used when something is barely acceptable and just meets a minimal standard. Often has a slightly negative tone. The food was passable, but I wouldn't eat there again His work was passable, but it could use improvement
all right	Informal way of saying something is fine or satisfactory. Often used in casual conversations. The movie was all right, but not great She said the project was all right, nothing special

Examples of usage

The proposal was acceptable to all parties involved.
Her behavior was not acceptable in a professional setting.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

quality

able to be endured; tolerable

Synonyms

bearable, endurable, manageable, passable, tolerable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
acceptable	Use this word when something meets a basic standard or is satisfactory but not exceptional. It implies a minimum level of satisfaction. The service at the restaurant was acceptable, but I've had better
bearable	This word applies when a situation or condition is difficult but can still be endured. It often indicates something is borderline tolerable. The pain from his injury was intense, but bearable with medication
endurable	Endurable is similar to bearable, used when something is tough but can be lived through or tolerated. It's often used in situations involving discomfort or long periods of suffering. The harsh weather conditions were endurable for the experienced hikers
tolerable	Tolerable is used when something is not very pleasant but can be endured. It can have a negative tone, implying that while it’s not good, it’s also not unbearable. The heat during summer is tolerable with an air conditioner
manageable	This word is appropriate when something may be challenging but can be controlled or dealt with effectively. With the new team members, the workload is finally manageable
passable	Passable means something is just good enough to be acceptable but not very good. It usually refers to performance or quality and has a slightly negative connotation. Her cooking skills are passable, but she could use more practice

Examples of usage

The noise level was barely acceptable for studying.
The conditions were barely acceptable for living in.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'acceptabilis', which means 'that can be received'.
It is formed from two parts: 'accept', meaning to welcome or receive, and the suffix '-able', indicating capability.
The transition to Middle English in the late 14th century shaped its modern usage and spelling.

Cultural Perspectives

In different cultures, what is considered acceptable can vary widely, affecting social interactions and etiquette.
In Japan, for example, the concept of 'wa' promotes harmony, making certain behaviors acceptable to maintain peace.
Fashion trends often shift perceptions of what is acceptable in public spaces, such as styles once deemed inappropriate becoming mainstream.

Psychology

Studies show that people's perceptions of acceptability can be influenced by social norms and peer behavior.
Feelings of acceptance positively impact mental health, making individuals feel valued and connected.
Boundaries and standards of acceptability are crucial in forming personal relationships and self-esteem.

Education

In school settings, what's acceptable behavior is often spelled out in student conduct guidelines.
Teachers may use examples of acceptable and unacceptable behavior to help students learn about respect and empathy.
Educational policies often reflect societal values on what is deemed acceptable in teaching and learning environments.

Pop Culture

In music, artists often tackle themes of societal acceptability, challenging norms through lyrics and performance.
Reality TV shows frequently portray contestants navigating what is considered acceptable behavior, influencing viewers’ perceptions.
The concept of 'cancel culture' in social media debates what is currently acceptable in public discourse.

Translations

Translations of the word "acceptable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aceitável

🇮🇳 स्वीकार्य

🇩🇪 akzeptabel

🇮🇩 dapat diterima

🇺🇦 прийнятний

🇵🇱 akceptowalny

🇯🇵 受け入れられる

🇫🇷 acceptable

🇪🇸 aceptable

🇹🇷 kabul edilebilir

🇰🇷 수용 가능한

🇸🇦 مقبول

🇨🇿 přijatelný

🇸🇰 prijateľný

🇨🇳 可接受的

🇸🇮 sprejemljiv

🇮🇸 ásættanlegur

🇰🇿 қабылданатын

🇬🇪 მისაღები

🇦🇿 qəbul edilə bilən

🇲🇽 aceptable

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,887, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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2884 scarcely
2885 freight
2886 candidate
2887 acceptable
2888 rough
2889 narrative
2890 saving
...