Core Definition
Adjustable is an adjective describing something that can be changed, adapted, or set to different positions, levels, or conditions to suit specific needs or preferences.
Key Examples
The chair has an adjustable height.
She uses an adjustable desk at work.
The device comes with adjustable settings.
He tightened the adjustable strap carefully.
Pronunciation
UK IPA: /əˈdʒʌstəbl/
US IPA: /əˈdʒʌstəbl/
Stress falls on the second syllable: ad-JUST-able.
Common learner note: the middle -just- sound is clear and stressed.
Part of Speech
Adjective
Frequency & Register
CEFR: B1–C2
Register: neutral; common in everyday, technical, and professional contexts.
Extended Meaning
Beyond physical movement, adjustable refers to the ability to adapt to varying conditions or requirements.
- physical flexibility (adjustable chair, adjustable strap)
- technical settings (adjustable brightness, adjustable speed)
- functional adaptation (adjustable system, adjustable schedule)
- user-centered design (adjustable features)
Overall, the word emphasizes adaptability, control, and convenience.
Usage Overview
Adjustable is widely used to describe products, systems, or conditions designed to fit different users or situations. It often appears in descriptions of furniture, equipment, technology, and processes where flexibility is important.
The tone is neutral and practical, highlighting usability rather than appearance.
Grammar Notes
Adjustable is an attributive adjective and is normally used before nouns.
an adjustable table
It is gradable in meaning but rarely appears in comparative forms; degree is usually expressed with modifiers such as fully or easily.
Patterns
adjustable + noun
The lamp has an adjustable arm.
fully / easily adjustable
The screen is fully adjustable.
adjustable for + purpose
The system is adjustable for different users.
Collocations
adjustable height
adjustable settings
adjustable chair
adjustable strap
adjustable system
adjustable design
The seat is adjustable to different positions.
Dialogues
Everyday
A: Is this chair comfortable?
B: Yes, it’s adjustable.
Professional
A: Can the desk fit different users?
B: It’s fully adjustable.
Technical
A: Can I change the brightness?
B: Yes, the display is adjustable.
Practical
A: Will this fit securely?
B: The strap is adjustable.
Stories
The office invested in adjustable desks to improve long-term employee comfort and ergonomics. Staff members were able to change the height throughout the day depending on posture, focus, and task type. Over time, this flexibility reduced fatigue and led to noticeable gains in productivity and overall satisfaction.
She bought an adjustable lamp for her home workspace after struggling with poor lighting in the evenings. The flexible arm allowed her to control both angle and intensity, adapting the light to different tasks. These small adjustments made extended working hours far more comfortable and sustainable.
The backpack featured adjustable straps designed to fit a wide range of body types and carrying styles. This flexibility made it equally suitable for short daily commutes and longer journeys. As a result, comfort remained consistent even after hours of use.
Mini Test
The screen has ______ brightness settings.
Answer: adjustable
Choose the correct form:
The chair is (adjustable / adjust).
Answer: adjustable
True or False: Adjustable describes something that cannot be changed.
Answer: False
Write one sentence using adjustable in a practical context.
Sample answer: The helmet has an adjustable strap for safety.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms
flexible — able to change
adaptable — able to adjust
modifiable — changeable
Antonyms
fixed — not movable
rigid — inflexible
unchangeable — cannot be altered
Semantic Field
adjustable vs. flexible — mechanical vs. general adaptability
adjustable vs. adaptable — physical settings vs. broader use
adjustable vs. fixed — changeable vs. permanent
Word Family
adjust — verb — change slightly
adjustment — noun — act of adjusting
FAQ
Is adjustable used only for physical objects?
No, it can also describe systems or conditions.
Is adjustable a formal word?
It is neutral and suitable for most contexts.
Can adjustable describe schedules?
Yes, especially in professional usage.
Does adjustable imply ease of change?
Usually, yes.
Conclusion
Adjustable highlights adaptability and user control, describing things designed to change according to need. Its practical focus makes it common in everyday, technical, and professional language.
“The word adjustable reflects the idea that usefulness often comes from flexibility. When systems and tools can adapt, they serve people better and last longer.“