Serviceable: meaning, definitions and examples

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serviceable

 

[ˈsɜː.vɪ.sə.bəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in good working order

Capable of providing a useful or valuable service; functional.

Synonyms

functional, operational, practical, useful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
serviceable

Use when describing something that can be used for its intended purpose but might not be in perfect condition.

  • The old car was still serviceable after some minor repairs
  • These shoes are worn, but still serviceable for short walks
functional

Appropriate for indicating something that operates correctly and serves its intended purpose without issues.

  • The website is functional again after the updates
  • As long as the machine remains functional, we don't need to replace it
useful

General term to express that something provides utility or serves a beneficial purpose.

  • A map is useful when traveling to new places
  • The advice you gave me was very useful
practical

Suitable when referring to usefulness and feasibility in real-world situations or everyday use.

  • This backpack is very practical for daily commuting
  • It's a practical solution to our storage problems
operational

Best used in contexts where something is ready for use or action, particularly in technical and industrial settings.

  • The new factory is now fully operational
  • The satellite became operational last month

Examples of usage

  • The old car may not be stylish, but it is still serviceable for our needs.
  • The laptop is a bit outdated, but it is still serviceable for basic tasks.
Context #2 | Adjective

able to be used for a particular purpose

Fit for use; capable of being used effectively.

Synonyms

effective, fit for purpose, suitable, usable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
serviceable

When describing something that is functional and adequate for use, but not of the highest quality or elegance.

  • The old car is still serviceable despite its age
  • These shoes might not be stylish, but they are serviceable for hiking
usable

When something is in a condition that allows it to be used, emphasizing its practicality and functionality.

  • The device is barely usable due to its broken screen
  • After cleaning, the old tools were still usable
effective

When something produces the desired result or achieves its goal successfully.

  • The new advertisement campaign was very effective in increasing sales
  • This medication is effective in treating headaches
fit for purpose

When something meets the criteria needed to achieve a specific intended use, often used in legal or contractual contexts.

  • The laptop is fit for purpose for basic office tasks
  • The furniture must be fit for purpose to pass the quality inspection
suitable

When something is appropriate or well-matched for a particular situation or use.

  • This dress is suitable for a formal event
  • These activities are suitable for children under five

Examples of usage

  • The tools in the shed are serviceable for our gardening project.
  • Although the equipment is old, it is still serviceable for this task.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Latin 'serviciabilis', meaning 'capable of serving'.
  • In the 15th century, 'serviceable' began to describe things that were fit for use or service.
  • The term has evolved from simply meaning 'serve' to encompass usefulness in various contexts.

Technology

  • In software, a serviceable product is one that meets user needs without elaborate features.
  • The idea of serviceability in machinery refers to how easily equipment can be maintained or repaired.
  • Designing products to be serviceable extends their lifespan, leading to less waste.

Psychology

  • People often prefer serviceable options in their daily lives, like reliable shoes or cars, which can influence their decision-making.
  • The concept of serviceability highlights how function over form can lead to greater satisfaction in choices.
  • In therapy, focusing on what is serviceable in one’s life can promote resilience and problem-solving.

Culinary

  • In cooking, a serviceable recipe is one that delivers good results without complex steps or ingredients.
  • Many home chefs prioritize serviceable kitchen tools, which can handle a variety of tasks without needing to be fancy.
  • Serviceable meals often emphasize practicality, helping families use available ingredients efficiently.

Business

  • Businesses aim for serviceable products, as they want to ensure customer satisfaction without extensive investments.
  • Service reconciliation in customer service refers to addressing service-related issues to ensure products are serviceable.
  • A company’s reputation often hinges on delivering serviceable solutions that meet consumer demands effectively.

Translations

Translations of the word "serviceable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 utilizável

🇮🇳 सेवा योग्य

🇩🇪 brauchbar

🇮🇩 layak digunakan

🇺🇦 придатний для використання

🇵🇱 użyteczny

🇯🇵 使用可能

🇫🇷 utilisable

🇪🇸 utilizable

🇹🇷 kullanılabilir

🇰🇷 사용 가능한

🇸🇦 قابل للاستخدام

🇨🇿 použitelný

🇸🇰 použiteľný

🇨🇳 可用的

🇸🇮 uporaben

🇮🇸 nýtjanlegur

🇰🇿 пайдалануға жарамды

🇬🇪 გამოყენებადი

🇦🇿 istifadə edilə bilən

🇲🇽 utilizable

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,889, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.