adaptability

American  

[uh-dap-tuh-bil-i-tee] / əˌdæp təˈbɪl ɪ ti /

Rarely adaptableness

noun

1. the ability to adjust to different conditions or circumstances.

   Educational institutions are switching to the new software because of its flexibility, adaptability, and ease of use.

   Critical thinking skills and emotional and intellectual adaptability are essential characteristics of an educated citizenry.

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Other Word Forms

• nonadaptability noun
• nonadaptableness noun
• readaptability noun
• superadaptableness noun
• unadaptability noun
• unadaptableness noun

Etymology

Origin of adaptability

adapt ( def. ) + -ability ( def. )

Compare meaning

How does adaptability compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• adaptability vs. flexibility

Example Sentences

That, in many respects, underscores the adaptability of American companies, which have used new technologies such as AI to improve profits while managing the increased costs from tariffs and the impact of stubbornly elevated inflation.

From Barron's

On the plus side, “the food and beverage sector continues to demonstrate resilience and adaptability,” Circana said.

From MarketWatch

Forward-thinking organizations are already requiring such change, embedding adaptability into their cultural DNA.

From The Wall Street Journal

The beauty of this base is its adaptability.

From Salon

Left, right, as an orthodox number 10, as a six, or an eight, Mount has a range of experiences that make him very useful for a coach who regards adaptability as a key weapon.

From BBC

Related Words

• flexibility
• versatility