Versatile
mediumPositive toneVUR-suh-til
adjective
Definition
Able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities
Memory hook
VERSA-tile: can TURN (vertere) in any direction - like a Swiss Army knife, useful for everything.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“She is a versatile actor who can play any role.”
“This versatile tool has multiple uses.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“She is a ______ actor who can play any role.”
Show answer
versatile
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Versatile is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "adaptable" or "flexible" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "limited".
Related GRE Words
malleable
Easily influenced or changed; adaptable
pliable
Easily bent or shaped; flexible and adaptable
pliant
Easily bent; flexible; or easily influenced
ingenious
Clever, original, and inventive
protean
readily able to change form or character; versatile
resilient
Able to recover quickly from difficulties; tough and flexible
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