Pliant: meaning, definitions and examples

Similar to pliant but more often used for physical attributes, like materials that can bend or be shaped easily. It can also refer to someone's willingness to be influenced.

• The pliant metal was ideal for making intricate jewelry.

Describes someone who follows rules, requests, or standards without resistance. Often used in formal or legal contexts, and can carry a negative connotation if it implies lack of independence or assertiveness.

• The company was compliant with all industry regulations.
• His compliant nature made him popular among the team leaders.

Typically used for people or animals that are easily managed or controlled, often suggesting a passive or submissive nature. It carries a negative connotation when describing people, as it implies a lack of initiative.

• The docile dog was a perfect pet for the elderly couple.
• Her docile demeanor made her an easy target for manipulation.

Indicates the ability to bend without breaking, both physically and metaphorically. It's a positive term when referring to someone's ability to adapt to varying circumstances.

• She maintains a flexible schedule to accommodate her clients' needs.
• Gymnasts need to be incredibly flexible.

Refers to someone or something that can adjust to new conditions or environments. This term is usually positive, indicating versatility and resilience.

• He is known for being highly adaptable in unpredictable situations.
• The software is adaptable to different user needs.

This word is often used to describe someone who is easily influenced or controlled, but it can also refer to something that is easily bent or shaped.

• The young plant's stems were pliant in the wind
• She was a pliant student, always willing to adjust to the teacher's methods

This word can be used to describe both objects that can be bent and people or schedules that can easily adapt to changes.

• The gymnast's body is extremely flexible
• We need a flexible plan that can be adjusted if our initial assumptions are wrong

Use this word to describe an object that can be bent without breaking. It's typically used for physical, tangible items.

• This metal is highly bendable, making it perfect for crafting jewelry
• The bendable straw makes it easy to sip from any angle

This word is most often used to describe plants or something that wraps around something else, such as ropes or wires.

• The twining vines covered the entire fence
• She noticed the twining cables behind the computer, creating a tangled mess