Fallible: meaning, definitions and examples

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fallible

 

[ ˈfæləbl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

human nature

Fallible refers to the quality of being capable of making mistakes or being erroneous. It is often used to describe humans, emphasizing that imperfection is an inherent part of our nature. Acknowledging fallibility can lead to greater humility and understanding.

Synonyms

errant, imperfect, liable to error, unreliable

Examples of usage

  • Everyone is fallible and can make mistakes.
  • Our fallible nature is a part of being human.
  • It is important to accept that even the best leaders are fallible.
  • Scientists, despite their expertise, are still fallible in their theories.
  • Recognizing our fallible tendencies can help us grow.

Translations

Translations of the word "fallible" in other languages:

🇵🇹 falível

🇮🇳 असफल

🇩🇪 fehlbar

🇮🇩 salah

🇺🇦 схильний до помилок

🇵🇱 omylny

🇯🇵 誤りやすい

🇫🇷 faillible

🇪🇸 falible

🇹🇷 hata yapabilir

🇰🇷 실수할 수 있는

🇸🇦 قابل للخطأ

🇨🇿 chybný

🇸🇰 omylne

🇨🇳 可犯错误的

🇸🇮 napačen

🇮🇸 villandi

🇰🇿 қателесетін

🇬🇪 შეცდომის შესაძლო

🇦🇿 səhv edə bilən

🇲🇽 falible

Etymology

The word 'fallible' comes from the Latin 'fallibilis', which means 'able to deceive or fail', derived from 'fallere', meaning 'to deceive'. The term evolved in Middle English as it was adopted into the lexicon, bearing the same emphasis on the capability of making mistakes. Throughout history, fallibility has been a subject of philosophical discussion, particularly in contexts that address human limitations, moral responsibility, and the pursuit of knowledge. The recognition of fallibility has major implications in areas such as education, governance, psychology, and science, as it prompts individuals and organizations to adopt a more compassionate and realistic view of human capabilities and errors.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,578, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.