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Passable: meaning, definitions and examples

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passable

 

[ˈpæsəbl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

quality of being satisfactory or acceptable

Having the ability or quality to be passed or traversed; acceptable in quality or appearance; adequate or satisfactory.

Synonyms

acceptable, adequate, satisfactory, tolerable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
passable

Use this word when something is just good enough to be accepted, but not impressive.

  • The quality of the service was passable
  • The road conditions are passable after the storm
acceptable

This word fits when something meets minimum standards or expectations, often used in formal or neutral contexts.

  • Her performance in the exam was acceptable
  • The proposal is acceptable to all parties involved
adequate

Use 'adequate' when something is sufficient for a specific need or purpose, typically in a neutral or technical manner.

  • The supply of food is adequate for the trip
  • She provided an adequate explanation for her actions
satisfactory

This word is suitable when something meets expectations or requirements to a satisfactory degree, often used in formal or evaluative contexts.

  • The results of the project are satisfactory
  • His performance during the interview was satisfactory
tolerable

Used when something is barely acceptable or endurable, often with a slightly negative connotation.

  • The heat in the room was just tolerable
  • Her attitude is tolerable but not pleasant

Examples of usage

  • The bridge was only passable by foot due to the damage.
  • Although not perfect, his work was passable and met the requirements.
  • The hotel was old but passable for a short stay.
  • The road conditions were barely passable after the heavy rain.
  • She had a passable knowledge of Spanish, enough to hold a basic conversation.
Context #2 | Adjective

quality of being able to be passed or traversed

Capable of being passed, traveled, or crossed; allowing passage or transit.

Synonyms

crossable, crossible, navigable, traversable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
passable

Used to describe a road, path, or route that can be traveled on, but may have some difficulties or imperfections. It implies a condition that is adequate, but not ideal.

  • After the storm, the road was passable but still had many potholes.
  • The bridge is passable, but drivers should be cautious.
navigable

Used to describe waterways that are deep and wide enough for boats or ships to travel through. It can also refer to routes or paths that can be easily followed.

  • The river is navigable by small boats.
  • We need to ensure that the canal remains navigable for commercial shipping.
crossable

Typically used to describe rivers, streams, or small obstacles that can be crossed safely, either on foot or by vehicle.

  • The river is shallow here, making it easily crossable.
  • We found a point where the fence was low enough to be crossable.
traversable

Used to describe terrain, landscapes, or areas that can be crossed or traveled over, often implying some challenge or effort required.

  • The rocky terrain was difficult but traversable with the right equipment.
  • The mountain pass is traversable during the summer months.
crossible

This term is not commonly used in standard English. It may be a typographical error or a rarely used archaic form, and no specific context or example is recommended.

Examples of usage

  • The snow had made the trail barely passable.
  • The river was too high to be passable by boat.
  • The road was blocked by fallen trees, making it impassable.
  • The rocks were too slippery to be passable on foot.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word has roots in Middle English, derived from the Old French term 'passable', which means able to pass.
  • It originally referred to physical pathways or roads that were just good enough for travelers to use.
  • Over time, the term expanded to describe not just roads, but also abilities, skills, and qualities that meet basic standards.

Literature

  • In literature, 'passable' is often used to describe characters whose traits are acceptable but not exceptional, reflecting their common nature.
  • Many authors use 'passable' to foreshadow a pivotal change where average characters evolve toward greatness.
  • Literary critics sometimes label works as 'passable' to indicate they meet fundamental criteria, yet lack depth or innovation.

Psychology

  • Striving for passable standards can lead to a phenomenon known as 'satisficing', where individuals settle for adequate options rather than the best, often due to decision fatigue.
  • In educational settings, students may aim for passable grades, which can affect their motivation and overall learning outcomes.
  • Research indicates that knowing something is passable may foster a sense of security, reducing anxiety in performance-based situations.

Pop Culture

  • In film and music reviews, works are often described as 'passable' when they entertain but do not leave a lasting impression on audiences.
  • Many TV shows have episodes that are considered 'passable', meaning they are watchable yet do not stand out within the series.
  • The term is sometimes used in reality TV to discuss participants who perform adequately, prompting mixed audience reactions.

Education

  • In an educational context, passing grades are often set as the minimum standard to continue in a course, reflecting a 'passable' level of understanding.
  • Teachers frequently describe students’ essays as 'passable' when they meet the basic requirements but lack originality or depth.
  • Many educational systems have implemented passable criteria to streamline assessments, ensuring students meet essential learning goals.

Translations

Translations of the word "passable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 transitável

🇮🇳 सतर्क

🇩🇪 passierbar

🇮🇩 dapat dilalui

🇺🇦 прохідний

🇵🇱 przejezdny

🇯🇵 通行可能な (つうこうかのうな)

🇫🇷 praticable

🇪🇸 transitable

🇹🇷 geçilebilir

🇰🇷 통과할 수 있는

🇸🇦 قابل للمرور

🇨🇿 průjezdný

🇸🇰 priechodný

🇨🇳 可通行的 (kě tōngxíng de)

🇸🇮 prehoden

🇮🇸 fær

🇰🇿 өтімді

🇬🇪 გადასვლადი

🇦🇿 keçilə bilən

🇲🇽 transitable

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,705, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.