Adaptability: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to the ability to change or be changed to fit new circumstances, broadly suitable for general contexts involving change.

• Her adaptability to the new workplace was impressive.
• The company's adaptability to market changes ensures its success.

Describes the ability to bend easily without breaking, often referring to schedules, plans, or physical attributes.

• Her flexible schedule allows her to balance work and family.
• Yoga improves your flexibility.

Highlights the ability to be useful in many different ways, demonstrating a wide range of skills or applications.

• His versatility as an actor allows him to play a variety of roles.
• This tool's versatility makes it indispensable for any handyman.

Primarily used when something can be adjusted or changed to fit specific requirements, more often used in a mechanical or physical context.

• This chair has adjustable height and backrest.
• The adjustability of the machine makes it ideal for different tasks.

Adaptability refers to the ability to change or be changed to fit different conditions. It is often used in contexts discussing how well someone or something can adjust to new situations or challenges.

• Her adaptability to the new job was impressive.
• This species shows great adaptability to a wide range of environments.

Plasticity is often used in scientific or technical contexts, especially in biology and psychology, to describe how something can be shaped or molded. It indicates a more intrinsic quality of being capable of change.

• Neuronal plasticity allows the brain to adapt to new learning.
• The plasticity of the material makes it useful in various manufacturing processes.

Resilience refers to the ability to recover quickly from difficulties or to withstand adversity. It is often used in contexts discussing emotional strength, mental health, or the ability to bounce back from setbacks.

• Her resilience in the face of personal loss was remarkable.
• The resilience of this fabric makes it ideal for outdoor use.

Robustness describes strength and reliability, often referring to the ability to remain effective under different conditions or stresses. It is commonly used in engineering, technology, and general descriptions of physical or structural strength.

• The robustness of the bridge was tested under severe weather conditions.
• Their business model showed robustness during the economic downturn.