Workable: meaning, definitions and examples

⚒️
Add to dictionary

workable

 

[ ˈwərkəbəl ]

Adjective / Noun
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?

arrow down
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?

arrow down
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?

arrow down
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

Translations of the word "workable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 exequível

🇮🇳 कार्यशील

🇩🇪 brauchbar

🇮🇩 dapat dikerjakan

🇺🇦 придатний до роботи

🇵🇱 wykonalny

🇯🇵 実行可能な

🇫🇷 exécutable

🇪🇸 ejecutable

🇹🇷 uygulanabilir

🇰🇷 작업 가능한

🇸🇦 قابل للعمل

🇨🇿 provozuschopný

🇸🇰 realizovateľný

🇨🇳 可行的

🇸🇮 izvedljiv

🇮🇸 færandi

🇰🇿 іске асырылатын

🇬🇪 სრულფასოვანი

🇦🇿 icra edilə bilən

🇲🇽 ejecutable

Etymology

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.

See also: coworker, coworkers, hardworking, overwork, rework, reworking, unworkability, unworkable, work, workability, workableness, workaholic, workaround, workbench, worker, workers, workforce, working, worklessness, workload, workmanship, workmates, workmen, workout, workplace, works, workshop, workstation, worktable, worktop, workwear, workweek.

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.