Viable: meaning, definitions and examples

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viable

 

[ ˈvaɪəbl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

in business

Capable of working successfully; feasible.

Synonyms

feasible, practical, sustainable, workable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
viable

Used to describe something that is capable of working successfully or is achievable, particularly in terms of plans, ideas, or solutions.

  • The doctors concluded that the treatment was medically viable.
  • After analyzing their finances, they found the business plan was viable.
feasible

Refers to something that is possible and practical to achieve. It's often used in contexts where practicality and likelihood are considered.

  • Building a bridge in this location is technically feasible.
  • We need to determine if this project is feasible within the given timeframe.
practical

Describes something that is sensible and useful in real-life situations or something that can be implemented effectively. It emphasizes utility and everyday application.

  • She presented a practical solution to the problem.
  • This tool is practical for everyday use in a household.
workable

Indicates something that is capable of being done or put into practice successfully, particularly if it is a plan or method that needs to be realistically implemented.

  • They proposed a workable solution that everyone could agree on.
  • This design is not only innovative but also workable under current conditions.
sustainable

Usually refers to methods, systems, or processes that can be maintained over the long term without causing harm, especially regarding environmental and resource considerations.

  • We need to adopt more sustainable farming practices.
  • Their business model isn't financially sustainable.

Examples of usage

  • This is a viable solution to the current problem.
  • The project needs to be economically viable in order to proceed.
Context #2 | Adjective

in biology

Able to survive or live successfully in a particular environment.

Synonyms

robust, thriving, vibrant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
viable

Used when discussing the practicality or feasibility of an idea, plan, or method.

  • The team needs to find a viable solution to the problem.
  • After extensive research, they decided the project is not economically viable.
vibrant

Used to describe something full of energy and life, often relating to colors, places, or personalities.

  • The festival was full of vibrant costumes and music.
  • The city's nightlife is incredibly vibrant.
thriving

Ideal for situations where something or someone is growing, prospering, or doing exceptionally well.

  • The small business is now thriving in its third year.
  • Thanks to the good weather, the garden is thriving.
robust

Best for describing something strong, healthy, or capable of withstanding difficult conditions.

  • The new bridge is robust enough to withstand heavy traffic.
  • Their robust defense system proved effective against the attacks.

Examples of usage

  • Only the fittest and most viable animals will survive in this harsh climate.

Translations

Translations of the word "viable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 viável

🇮🇳 व्यवहार्य

🇩🇪 machbar

🇮🇩 layak

🇺🇦 життєздатний

🇵🇱 wykonalny

🇯🇵 実行可能な

🇫🇷 viable

🇪🇸 viable

🇹🇷 uygulanabilir

🇰🇷 실현 가능한

🇸🇦 قابل للتطبيق

🇨🇿 uskutečnitelný

🇸🇰 uskutočniteľný

🇨🇳 可行的

🇸🇮 izvedljiv

🇮🇸 framkvæmanlegur

🇰🇿 қолайлы

🇬🇪 სიცოცხლისუნარიანი

🇦🇿 həyata keçirilə bilən

🇲🇽 viable

Etymology

The word 'viable' originated in the mid-19th century from the Latin word 'viabilis', meaning capable of life or living. It has been used in various fields such as business, biology, and agriculture to describe something that is capable of success, feasibility, or survival.

See also: via, viaduct, vial.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,413 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.