Tractably Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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tractably
[ˈtræk.tə.bli ]
Definition
easily managed
Tractably refers to the manner in which something can be easily managed or controlled. It describes a state where an individual, situation, or problem can be handled with little difficulty. In a broader sense, tractably often implies a level of cooperation or compliance. This term may categorize people, animals, or tasks that do not resist direction or management.
Synonyms
compliantly, cooperatively, docilely, manageably.
Examples of usage
- The dog responded tractably to the trainer's commands.
- The software was designed to handle complex calculations tractably.
- Her tractably attitude made the project go smoothly.
- They approached the negotiations tractably, reaching an agreement quickly.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- In mathematics, especially in optimization and algorithms, 'tractable' refers to problems that can be solved in a reasonable amount of time.
- The study of tractability often distinguishes between 'tractable' and 'intractable' problems, with practical implications across computer science.
- In behavioral sciences, a tractable decision-making process may lead to more efficient outcomes in group settings.
Psychology
- Individuals labeled as tractable often show high levels of adaptability in stressful situations, benefiting their mental health.
- In therapy, clients who are tractable can often work collaboratively with therapists, leading to more successful outcomes.
- Research suggests that environments designed to be tractable promote better learning and problem-solving abilities.
Business
- In project management, a tractable project is one that can be easily navigated and adapted as requirements change.
- Companies that prioritize tractability in their operations often find they can respond more quickly to market trends and challenges.
- Tractability in negotiations means that parties can steer discussions towards mutual agreements without straying too far off course.
Literature
- In narrative theory, tractable characters are often those that can evolve, making them more relatable to audiences.
- Authors may describe settings or conflicts as tractable when they can be resolved easily by characters within the story.
- The concept of tractability can be analyzed in literary works to discuss how themes and messages are easily navigated by readers.
Origin of 'tractably'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'tractabilis,' which means 'that can be drawn or pulled,' hinting at its controllable nature.
- The suffix '-ly' in English is often used to turn adjectives into adverbs, indicating the manner of doing something.
- Earlier forms of the word appear in English texts from the 17th century, emphasizing its long-standing use.
The word 'tractably' is derived from the adjective 'tractable', which originates from the Latin word 'tractabilis', meaning 'easily handled or managed'. This Latin term comes from 'tractare', which means 'to pull or to draw'. The prefix 'tract-' in both Latin and English relates to the concept of pulling or dragging. In historical usage, 'tractable' began to emerge in English around the 15th century, initially describing animals that could be led or managed easily. Its adverbial form, 'tractably', started to gain traction in the 19th century, primarily in contexts emphasizing manageability and compliance. Over the years, its application has expanded to include various fields such as psychology, education, and software development, where ease of management is crucial.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #42,933, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.