Workable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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workable

[ˈwərkəbəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in a job or project context

Capable of being successfully worked on or carried out; feasible.

Synonyms

doable, feasible, practicable, viable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
workable	Describes something that can be effectively put into practice or used with reasonable effort. Suitable for general and day-to-day tasks. The plan is workable, but we'll need some adjustments. Finding a workable solution for the problem was their main goal.
feasible	Used to describe something that is not only possible but also practical and achievable, often in formal or technical contexts. Frequently used in discussions about plans, projects, or research. After reviewing the data, the team decided that the proposal was feasible. Building a bridge here is feasible, but it will require significant resources.
practicable	Refers to something that can be put into practice, especially regarding plans or ideas that are sensible and realistic. Often used in formal writing or discussions. The suggested route is practicable, but it might take longer. We need to ensure the instructions are practicable for everyone.
viable	Typically used to describe something that is capable of being successful or sustainable over the long term. Commonly used in business, biological, and economic contexts. The business plan is viable and has the potential for high returns. We need to develop a viable strategy for the next fiscal year.
doable	Implies that a task or plan is possible to achieve, often with a slightly informal tone. Generally used when discussing everyday tasks or simple projects. The project seems tough, but it's definitely doable. Is it doable to finish the report by tomorrow?

Examples of usage

This plan is very workable and can be implemented easily.
The proposed changes are not workable in the current environment.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

in a relationship context

Capable of functioning effectively together, especially as a team.

Synonyms

collaborative, cooperative, harmonious, productive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
workable	Used to describe a plan, solution, or system that is practical and can be successfully implemented. We need a workable solution to this problem. The committee presented a workable plan for the project's next phase.
collaborative	Applied when referring to an effort, task, or environment where multiple people work together to achieve a common goal. The project was a collaborative effort between several departments. We need a more collaborative approach to enhance team productivity.
cooperative	Describes a person, group, or environment that is willing to work together and assist each other. The team members were very cooperative during the crisis. We need a cooperative attitude to resolve this issue quickly.
harmonious	Used to describe a situation, relationship, or environment where there is peace, agreement, and absence of conflict. The management aims to create a harmonious workplace. They have a harmonious relationship, always supporting each other.
productive	Refers to a person, period, or environment capable of producing a lot of work or results. We had a very productive meeting today. This has been a productive week; we completed all our major tasks.

Examples of usage

They have a workable relationship that allows them to collaborate efficiently.
Effective communication is key to maintaining a workable partnership.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

in a legal context

A document or agreement that is suitable for being worked on or implemented.

Synonyms

agreement, arrangement, contract, deal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
workable	Used to describe a plan, idea, or method that is practical and likely to succeed. The proposed solution is workable given our current resources We need a workable strategy to meet our deadlines
contract	A formal, legally binding agreement between parties, usually written and enforceable by law. She signed a contract to work with the company for two years The contract specifies all the terms of service and fees
agreement	Used when two or more parties reach a shared understanding or decision, typically formalized in writing. They finally came to an agreement after long negotiations The agreement outlines the terms and conditions for both parties
deal	Informally used to refer to an agreement, especially in business or negotiations; can have a slight sense of transaction. They struck a deal to share the profits equally The deal fell through due to disagreements over the terms
arrangement	Used to refer to an organized plan or preparation made between parties for a specific purpose or event. We made an arrangement to meet at the café tomorrow The travel arrangements for the conference are finalized

Examples of usage

The lawyers are reviewing the workable contract before finalizing the deal.
It's essential to have a workable agreement in place to avoid misunderstandings.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Business and Management

In project management, the term 'workable solution' is often used to describe a practical approach that can be successfully implemented.
Evaluating the 'workability' of a plan often influences decision-making in corporate settings, affecting both projects and resources.
Innovation often relies on finding workable ideas that address real-world problems, helping businesses adapt to market needs.

Social Sciences

In sociology, workable solutions in community organization involve strategies that are feasible and accepted by the community members.
The concept is essential in conflict resolution; parties must find workable compromises to achieve peace.
A 'workable environment' in educational psychology refers to spaces that support learning through accessibility and functionality.

Technology

In tech, a 'workable model' refers to prototypes that function as intended, allowing for real-world testing and iteration.
Software developers often need to create workable code that runs efficiently, minimizing bugs and optimizing functionality.
Usability testing in products focuses on developing a workable interface that enhances user experience and satisfaction.

Literature

In literature, characters often grapple with what is workable in their lives versus their desires, adding depth to storytelling.
Many stories depict protagonists who devise workable plans to navigate challenges, highlighting the human capacity for problem-solving.
The term appears in various literary analyses to describe themes and resolutions that characters find practical in a given narrative.

Origin of 'workable'

Main points about word origin

The word 'workable' emerged in the English language in the late 19th century, combining 'work' and the suffix '-able' to suggest the ability to work.
'Able' comes from the Latin 'habilis', meaning 'able or fit', showing a connection to capability.
The evolution from 'work' as a noun and verb reflects the adaptability of English language, where compound words are formed to convey new meanings.

The word 'workable' originated in the mid-19th century, combining 'work' and '-able' to form a term describing something capable of being worked on or carried out. It emphasizes the practicality and feasibility of a plan, idea, or relationship. Over time, 'workable' has become a commonly used adjective in various contexts, reflecting its importance in assessing the viability and effectiveness of different situations.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,332, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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11329 extracting
11330 solicit
11331 whales
11332 workable
11333 simplification
11334 alphabetical
11335 conspicuously
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