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Portability Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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portability

[หŒpษ”หtษ™หˆbษชlษชti ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

in technology

The quality or state of being portable, especially the ability to be easily carried or moved.

Synonyms

mobility, movability, transportability.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
portability

This word is often used when discussing the ease with which something can be carried or moved, particularly in the context of devices, software, or equipment.

  • The portability of this laptop makes it a great choice for frequent travelers.
  • Portability has become a key feature for modern electronic devices.
mobility

This word is commonly used when discussing the ability to move freely or easily. It can be used in physical, social, or professional contexts.

  • His injury affected his mobility, making it hard for him to walk.
  • Mobility in the job market is essential for career growth.
movability

This word is less commonly used and can describe the physical capability of an object to be moved from one place to another. It is generally more specific and less abstract than 'portability'.

  • The movability of the office furniture allows us to rearrange the space easily.
  • The movability of this piece of machinery is limited by its large size.
transportability

This word is best used when discussing the ease with which something can be transported, especially over longer distances. It's often used in logistics, military, or scientific contexts.

  • The transportability of the medical supplies is crucial for disaster relief operations.
  • Considering the transportability of goods is important in international trade.

Examples of usage

  • Software developers aim for portability when creating applications that can run on multiple operating systems.
  • The portability of the new laptop makes it convenient for travelers.
  • The portability of data is essential for businesses that require flexibility in accessing information.
  • The portability of the device allows users to work from anywhere.
  • The portability of the app ensures seamless usage across different devices.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In recent decades, devices like laptops and tablets have become popular due to their portability, allowing users to work from anywhere.
  • Smartphones are the epitome of portability, fitting easily in pockets while providing powerful computing capabilities.
  • Portability is a key design principle in software development, where applications are made to run on various devices without needing major adjustments.

Business

  • Portable products often achieve higher sales because consumers value convenience and mobility.
  • In the world of logistics, portability can reduce transportation costs and improve efficiency by ensuring products are easy to handle.
  • Portability can enhance customer satisfaction, as businesses that offer easily transportable items can meet consumer demands better.

Psychology

  • Portability can affect decision-making, as people tend to choose items that they feel they can easily manage and transport.
  • Having portable options can reduce barriers to access, making certain activities or resources more appealing.
  • Research shows that products with better portability can lead to increased usage rates, impacting how often people engage with the product.

Pop Culture

  • The rise of portable music players in the 1990s changed how people consumed music, leading to the popularity of the compact disc and later, digital downloads.
  • The term 'portable' is often used in gaming, with handheld consoles becoming a staple for gamers on the go.
  • Many superhero characters in film and comics are depicted with portable gadgets that assist in their adventures, emphasizing the cool factor of having handy tools.

Origin of 'portability'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'portabilis', meaning 'able to be carried'.
  • Related English words include 'portable' and 'import', both connected to the idea of carrying something.
  • The 'port-' in the word is derived from 'portare', which means 'to carry' in Latin.

The word 'portability' originated from the Latin word 'portabilis,' which means 'that can be carried.' The concept of portability has become increasingly important in the technological age, where devices and software need to be easily transportable and adaptable. The emphasis on portability has led to innovations in the design of gadgets, applications, and systems to enhance mobility and convenience.

See also: airport, comport, deport, export, passport, port, portable, portal, portend, portent, porter, porters, portion, portly, portrait, viewport.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,165, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.