Pliable
mediumNeutral tonePLY-uh-bul
adjective
Definition
Easily bent or shaped; flexible and adaptable
Memory hook
PLI-able: Like PLIERS that bend metal -- pliable things can be flexed and shaped.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The clay was pliable enough to mold into any shape.”
“She had a pliable attitude that helped her adjust to changes.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The clay was ______ enough to mold into any shape.”
Show answer
pliable
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Pliable is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "flexible" or "malleable" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "rigid".
Related GRE Words
pliant
Easily bent; flexible; or easily influenced
malleable
Easily influenced or changed; adaptable
versatile
Able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities
tractable
easily managed, controlled, or shaped
abate
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
abiding
Lasting for a long time; enduring and unchanging
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