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B2 verb #19 le plus courant 10 min de lecture

compatible

Top 19

At the A1 level, 'compatible' is a very difficult word. You don't need to use it yet. Instead, you can say 'works with' or 'is good with'. For example, 'My phone works with this cable.' This is the same idea as compatibility. You might see this word on a box for a toy or a phone charger. If you see 'Compatible with iPhone', it means 'This works with an iPhone'. At this stage, just remember that it means two things can be used together without a problem. It is like two friends who like to play the same games; they are 'compatible' because they can play together happily. Don't worry about the long spelling; just look for the 'with' after the word. If you are shopping, this word is very helpful to know so you don't buy the wrong thing.

For A2 learners, 'compatible' is a useful word for talking about technology and people. It is an adjective. You use it to describe things that can exist or work together. A common sentence is: 'Is this software compatible with my computer?' This means 'Can I use this software on my computer?' You can also use it for people: 'They are a compatible couple.' This means they get along well and don't fight much. It is important to remember to use the word 'with' after compatible. You can think of it like 'matching'. If two things match, they are often compatible. In your daily life, you might use it when talking about batteries, chargers, or even roommates. If you and your roommate like the same music and sleep at the same time, you are compatible.

At the B1 level, you should start using 'compatible' to describe more complex situations. It is no longer just about 'working together' but about 'fitting' into a system or a lifestyle. You might say, 'His new job is not compatible with his family life because he has to travel too much.' This shows that two parts of his life are in conflict. In technical contexts, you will use it to discuss 'backwards compatibility', which is when new things work with old things. You should also be aware of the noun form, 'compatibility'. For example, 'We need to check the compatibility of these two programs.' At this level, you should be comfortable using 'compatible with' in both speaking and writing to describe relationships, technology, and schedules.

At the B2 level, 'compatible' is a key vocabulary word for expressing nuanced ideas about harmony and conflict. You should understand that compatibility often refers to an underlying system or set of values. For instance, 'The proposed legislation is not compatible with existing constitutional rights.' This usage is more abstract than just talking about phone chargers. You should also be able to use adverbs to modify the word, such as 'perfectly compatible', 'highly compatible', or 'entirely incompatible'. In business English, you might discuss whether a company's culture is compatible with a potential partner. You should also be careful not to confuse it with 'comparable'. Remember that 'compatible' is about how things work together, while 'comparable' is about how similar they are. You are expected to use this word accurately in essays and professional discussions.

For C1 learners, 'compatible' is used to analyze deep-seated consistencies in logic, philosophy, and advanced science. You might explore 'compatibilism' in philosophy—the idea that free will is compatible with determinism. You should use the word to describe the integration of complex systems, such as 'The new fiscal policy is compatible with the long-term goals of environmental sustainability.' At this level, you should recognize the subtle difference between 'compatible' and 'congruous' or 'consonant'. You can use it to describe blood types and organ transplants with precision. Your use of the word should reflect an understanding that compatibility is often a requirement for the stability of a larger system. You should also be able to identify when the word is being used metaphorically in literature or high-level journalism to describe the clashing of civilizations or ideologies.

At the C2 level, your mastery of 'compatible' involves using it with absolute precision in highly specialized or academic contexts. You might discuss the 'compatibility' of quantum mechanics with general relativity, two theories that are famously difficult to reconcile. You understand the historical etymology of the word—from the Latin 'compati', meaning 'to suffer with'—and how this informs its modern sense of 'coexisting'. You can use the word in legal contexts to describe the 'compatibility' of international treaties with domestic law. Your writing should demonstrate an ability to use 'compatible' to describe the intricate balance of complex ecosystems or the delicate alignment of diplomatic interests. You are also sensitive to the rhetorical use of the word, such as using 'not incompatible' to suggest a cautious or tentative agreement. At this level, the word is a precise instrument for defining the boundaries of possibility and cooperation.

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

compatible en 30 secondes

Compatible describes things that can work together or exist in harmony without conflict or failure.
It is commonly used in technology (software/hardware) and interpersonal relationships (dating/roommates).
The word is an adjective and is almost always followed by the preposition 'with'.
The opposite of compatible is 'incompatible', which describes a fundamental clash or inability to function together.

The term compatible is a cornerstone of modern English, functioning primarily as an adjective that describes the ability of two distinct entities to exist in a state of harmony or functional synergy. While the user may have categorized it as a verb, in standard linguistic practice, it serves to qualify the relationship between subjects. In the realm of interpersonal dynamics, being compatible implies that two individuals possess temperaments, values, or lifestyles that do not create friction. In the technological sphere, it refers to the capacity of software or hardware to operate within a specific environment without causing system failures. Understanding compatibility is essential for navigating everything from romantic relationships to complex engineering projects.

Interpersonal Harmony: When we say two people are compatible, we are suggesting that their personalities 'mesh' well. This doesn't mean they are identical; rather, it means their differences are complementary rather than contradictory. For instance, an introverted person might be highly compatible with an extrovert who respects their need for quiet time.

After several dates, they realized their long-term goals were perfectly compatible, leading to a stable and happy marriage.

Technical Integration: In IT, compatibility is a binary of success or failure. A file format must be compatible with the software intended to open it. If you try to run a legacy application on a modern operating system, you may find they are no longer compatible due to changes in underlying architecture.

The IT department confirmed that the new security patch is compatible with all workstations currently in use.

Logical Consistency: In philosophy and logic, two ideas are compatible if they can both be true at the same time. If one idea necessitates the falsehood of another, they are incompatible. This usage is common in academic debates regarding ethics, science, and religion.

The theory of evolution is considered by many theologians to be compatible with a belief in a divine creator.

Furthermore, the word extends into the biological sciences, specifically regarding blood types and organ transplants. A donor and a recipient must be compatible to ensure the recipient's immune system does not reject the new tissue. This life-saving application of the word highlights its critical importance in technical medical jargon. Whether you are discussing a USB-C cable, a blood transfusion, or a roommate agreement, the core concept remains the same: the ability to coexist or function together without conflict. In a globalized world, finding compatible solutions to cross-border problems is the primary goal of international diplomacy and trade agreements.

Using compatible correctly requires an understanding of its prepositional requirements and its placement within a sentence. Most frequently, it is followed by the preposition 'with'. You say 'A is compatible with B'. It is less common, though occasionally seen in older texts, to see 'to', but 'with' is the modern standard. The word can also stand alone as a predicate adjective, as in 'The two systems are compatible'.

Subject-Verb-Adjective Pattern: The most basic structure involves a linking verb. 'The software is compatible.' This tells us the subject possesses the quality of being able to work with something else, which is usually implied by the context of the conversation.

Before buying the lens, make sure it is compatible with your camera body.

Comparative Usage: We often use modifiers to show the degree of compatibility. Words like 'perfectly', 'entirely', 'mostly', or 'barely' help specify how well things work together. 'They are perfectly compatible' suggests a flawless match.

His aggressive management style was not compatible with the company's relaxed culture.

Negative Constructions: To express the opposite, you can use 'not compatible' or the single word 'incompatible'. 'Incompatible' is often stronger and suggests a fundamental clash that cannot be resolved without significant changes.

The blood types were found to be compatible, allowing the emergency transfusion to proceed.

When writing formally, ensure that the subjects being compared are grammatically parallel. For example, 'The requirements of the job are compatible with my skills' is better than 'The job is compatible with my skills,' as it specifies exactly what is being matched. In technical manuals, you will often see lists of 'compatible devices,' where the word acts as an attributive adjective preceding the noun. This usage is efficient and clear for consumers looking to expand their tech ecosystem. By mastering these patterns, you can use the word with precision in both casual conversation and professional documentation.

In the 21st century, compatible is ubiquitous across several high-impact domains. You will hear it most frequently in the tech industry, where the rapid evolution of hardware and software creates a constant need for 'backwards compatibility'—the ability of new systems to work with older ones. It is also a staple of the 'wellness' and 'relationship' industries, appearing in podcasts, self-help books, and advice columns. Finally, it is a key term in medical and biological contexts, where it can literally be a matter of life and death.

Tech Support and Retail: Walk into any electronics store, and you'll hear customers asking, 'Is this charger compatible with my iPhone?' or 'Will this game be compatible with the new console?' Sales associates use the word to reassure customers or to upsell them on adapters that make incompatible devices work together.

The software developer noted that the app is compatible with both iOS and Android platforms.

Relationship Counseling: Therapists often discuss 'emotional compatibility.' This refers to how partners handle stress, express affection, and resolve conflict. You might hear a friend say, 'We really liked each other, but our lifestyles just weren't compatible,' explaining why a relationship ended despite mutual attraction.

They decided to break up because they realized they were not compatible regarding their desire to have children.

Medical Settings: In hospitals, doctors check for 'cross-compatibility' before transfusions. A patient with Type O-negative blood is the 'universal donor' because their blood is compatible with all other types, whereas other types have much stricter compatibility requirements.

The surgeon confirmed that the donor kidney was a compatible match for the patient.

In the workplace, you'll hear the word during project planning. Managers might ask if a new strategy is compatible with the company's five-year plan. In environmental science, researchers study whether certain plant species are compatible with the local soil and climate conditions. The word is a versatile tool for describing any situation where two things must interact. Its prevalence in news reports about mergers and acquisitions also shows its importance in the financial world, where the 'compatibility' of two corporate cultures can determine the success of a multi-billion dollar deal.

Even though compatible is a common word, it is frequently misused in terms of part of speech, preposition choice, and nuance. One of the most glaring errors is attempting to use it as a verb. Because it ends in '-ible', some learners mistakenly think they can 'compatible' something, but the correct verb form would be 'to make compatible' or 'to harmonize'.

Preposition Errors: Many learners use 'to' or 'for' instead of 'with'. While 'compatible to' is sometimes found in older literature, modern English almost exclusively uses 'with'. Saying 'This is compatible for my phone' is grammatically awkward; 'This is compatible with my phone' is the correct form.

Incorrect: The app is compatible to my computer. Correct: The app is compatible with my computer.

Confusing with 'Comparable': 'Compatible' and 'comparable' sound similar but have vastly different meanings. 'Comparable' means two things are similar or can be compared. 'Compatible' means they can work together. Two things can be comparable (similar) but not compatible (able to work together).

The two software versions are compatible, so you can share files between them easily.

Misunderstanding 'Incompatible': Sometimes people use 'incompatible' to mean 'different'. However, being different doesn't always mean being incompatible. Incompatibility implies a conflict that prevents cooperation or coexistence. Two people with different hobbies can still be compatible if they respect each other's interests.

They are not compatible because one wants to live in the city and the other in the country.

Another mistake is overusing the word in contexts where 'suitable' or 'appropriate' would be more precise. For example, 'This dress is compatible with the party' is strange; 'This dress is suitable for the party' is better. Compatibility implies a functional or systemic relationship, not just a matter of social etiquette. Lastly, avoid the 'double negative' trap—saying 'not incompatible' when you simply mean 'compatible' can sometimes be used for rhetorical effect (litotes), but in technical writing, it usually just creates confusion. Stick to clear, direct language to ensure your meaning is understood.

While compatible is a powerful word, English offers a variety of synonyms that can provide more specific nuances depending on the context. Whether you are describing a technical fit, a social harmony, or a logical consistency, choosing the right alternative can elevate your writing and speaking.

Harmonious: This word is best for interpersonal or aesthetic contexts. It suggests not just a lack of conflict, but a pleasing and positive interaction. 'The team had a harmonious relationship' sounds warmer than 'The team was compatible'.
Congruous: Often used in formal or mathematical contexts, 'congruous' means in agreement or harmony. It is the opposite of 'incongruous' (out of place). 'His actions were congruous with his stated beliefs' is a very formal way of saying he practiced what he preached.
Interoperable: This is a highly technical term used in engineering and IT. It describes the ability of different systems to exchange and make use of information. While all interoperable systems are compatible, not all compatible systems are interoperable.

The new software is compatible with older versions, ensuring a smooth transition for users.

Consistent: Used when discussing ideas, data, or behavior. If two pieces of evidence are consistent, they support the same conclusion. 'The witness's story was consistent with the physical evidence' is a common legal usage.

His lifestyle is not compatible with his low income, leading to significant debt.

In some cases, 'matching' or 'fitting' might be simpler and more effective. For example, 'matching colors' is more natural than 'compatible colors'. However, 'compatible' remains the best choice when the focus is on the underlying system or the ability to function without crashing or fighting. By understanding these alternatives, you can avoid repetitive language and choose the word that fits your specific meaning perfectly. Always consider the 'register' (formality level) of your audience before choosing between a common word like 'fitting' and a more academic one like 'congruous'.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

Neutre

Informel

Child friendly

Argot

Le savais-tu ?

The root 'pati' (to suffer) is the same root found in 'passion' and 'patient'. So, being compatible literally means you can 'suffer' or 'endure' things together!

Guide de prononciation

UK /kəmˈpæt.ə.bəl/

US /kəmˈpæt̬.ə.bəl/

Second syllable: com-PAT-i-ble

Rime avec

Incompatible Incorruptible Susceptible Acceptable Perceptible Digestible Suggestible Collectible

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing it as 'com-pat-ABLE' (like the word 'able').
Stressing the first syllable: 'COM-pat-ible'.
Confusing the 'i' with an 'a' sound.
Dropping the 'm' sound at the start.
Mumbling the final 'ble' syllable.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

Common in technical manuals and news.

Écriture 4/5

Spelling 'i' vs 'a' and preposition 'with' are tricky.

Expression orale 3/5

Pronunciation is usually clear once stress is learned.

Écoute 2/5

Easily recognized in context.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

Work Together Fit Match With

Apprends ensuite

Congruous Harmonious Interoperable Consistent Integration

Avancé

Compatibilism Synergy Consonance Equilibrium Coexistence

Grammaire à connaître

Adjective + Preposition

Compatible with (not to/for).

Linking Verbs

The parts *seem* compatible.

Negative Prefixes

In- + compatible = Incompatible.

Adverbial Modification

They are *perfectly* compatible.

Noun Formation

The suffix -ity creates 'compatibility'.

Exemples par niveau

This toy is compatible with your computer.

This toy works with your computer.

Compatible is an adjective here.

Is this charger compatible with my phone?

Does this charger work with my phone?

Use 'with' after compatible.

They are compatible friends.

They are friends who get along well.

Compatible comes before the noun 'friends'.

The app is compatible with tablets.

The app works on tablets.

Plural 'tablets' follows 'with'.

Are these batteries compatible?

Do these batteries work in this device?

Compatible can be used at the end of a question.

The ink is compatible with the printer.

The ink works in the printer.

Singular 'ink' is the subject.

This case is compatible with iPhone 13.

This case fits the iPhone 13.

Specific model names often follow 'with'.

We need compatible parts for the car.

We need parts that fit the car.

Compatible is an attributive adjective.

The software is compatible with Windows 10.

The software runs on Windows 10.

Common technical usage.

They found a compatible roommate online.

They found a roommate who has similar habits.

Compatible describes 'roommate'.

Is the new lens compatible with my camera?

Can I use this lens on my camera?

Question form with 'is'.

These two colors are very compatible.

These two colors look good together.

Used for aesthetic harmony.

The remote is compatible with most TVs.

The remote works with many different TVs.

'Most' modifies the noun phrase.

They aren't compatible because they want different things.

They don't get along because of different goals.

Negative 'aren't' used here.

Make sure the plug is compatible with the outlet.

Check if the plug fits the wall socket.

Imperative 'make sure'.

The blood types must be compatible for the surgery.

The blood must match for the operation.

Modal 'must' shows necessity.

The new system is backwards compatible with older files.

The new system can open old files.

'Backwards compatible' is a compound adjective.

Her career goals are not compatible with her current lifestyle.

Her job plans conflict with how she lives now.

Abstract usage of compatibility.

We checked if the chemicals were compatible before mixing them.

We checked if the chemicals would react safely.

Used in a scientific context.

The update made the app compatible with the latest OS.

The update allowed the app to work on the new software.

Verb 'made' + object + adjective.

Are our schedules compatible for a meeting next week?

Do our free times match up for a meeting?

Refers to time management.

They seem compatible, but they have very different values.

They look like a good match, but they disagree on basics.

Contrast using 'but'.

The printer driver is compatible with both Mac and PC.

The printer works on both types of computers.

Use of 'both... and'.

This keyboard is compatible with all Bluetooth devices.

This keyboard works with anything using Bluetooth.

'All' emphasizes broad compatibility.

The merger failed because the corporate cultures were not compatible.

The companies didn't join well because they worked differently.

Business context usage.

Is the proposed law compatible with the national constitution?

Does the new law follow the rules of the constitution?

Legal/Political usage.

They are perfectly compatible partners in both business and life.

They work together perfectly in every way.

Adverb 'perfectly' modifies compatible.

The data formats are compatible, so integration should be easy.

The data types match, making it easy to combine them.

Logical consequence using 'so'.

His views on climate change are not compatible with the party's platform.

His opinions conflict with the political group's goals.

Ideological compatibility.

The donor's tissue must be compatible to prevent organ rejection.

The tissue must match to keep the body from attacking it.

Medical/Biological necessity.

We need to find a solution that is compatible with our budget.

We need a plan that fits the money we have.

Financial compatibility.

The software is compatible with a wide range of third-party plugins.

The software works with many other small programs.

'Wide range of' adds detail.

The philosopher argued that free will is compatible with determinism.

He said we can have free choice even if everything is decided.

Academic/Philosophical context.

The new environmental regulations are compatible with economic growth.

The green rules don't stop the economy from getting bigger.

Complex socio-economic usage.

Their marriage was a union of two highly compatible temperaments.

Their marriage joined two people with very similar moods.

Sophisticated description of personality.

The experimental results are compatible with the existing hypothesis.

The new data supports the theory we already have.

Scientific validation.

Is a high-speed rail system compatible with the current infrastructure?

Can we build fast trains using the tracks we have now?

Infrastructural compatibility.

The software's architecture is compatible with future expansions.

The way the software is built allows for more features later.

Forward-looking technical usage.

His religious beliefs were entirely compatible with his scientific career.

His faith and his science work did not conflict.

Personal/Professional alignment.

The two diplomatic strategies are not mutually compatible.

The two ways of handling the country cannot work together.

'Mutually compatible' is a common C1 collocation.

The ontological status of the object is not compatible with empirical observation.

The nature of the thing cannot be proven by what we see.

Highly academic/Metaphysical usage.

He sought a synthesis of ideas that were previously deemed incompatible.

He tried to combine ideas people thought could never work together.

Refers to intellectual reconciliation.

The treaty's provisions are compatible with the overarching principles of international law.

The treaty follows the big rules of the world.

Legal/Diplomatic precision.

The architecture of the brain is compatible with several models of consciousness.

The brain's structure allows for different theories of how we think.

Neuroscientific/Cognitive usage.

Whether austerity is compatible with social cohesion remains a subject of intense debate.

People argue if cutting spending can happen without hurting society.

Political/Sociological analysis.

The findings are compatible with a range of divergent interpretations.

The results could mean many different things.

Scientific ambiguity/Openness.

The aesthetic of the new wing is compatible with the original Gothic structure.

The new part of the building looks good with the old style.

Architectural/Aesthetic harmony.

The software is compatible with the exigencies of real-time data processing.

The software can handle the needs of fast data.

Formal technical language ('exigencies').

Synonymes

harmonious consistent reconcilable congruous adaptable matching

Antonymes

incompatible conflicting mismatched

Collocations courantes

Perfectly compatible

Backwards compatible

Mutually compatible

Highly compatible

Broadly compatible

Compatible with

Chemically compatible

Socially compatible

Functionally compatible

Logically compatible

Phrases Courantes

Compatible with life

Cross-compatible

Compatible match

Check for compatibility

Compatibility mode

Compatibility test

Blood compatibility

Electromagnetic compatibility

Compatible components

System compatibility

Souvent confondu avec

compatible vs Comparable

Comparable means 'similar'; compatible means 'works together'.

compatible vs Complimentary

Complimentary means 'free' or 'praising'; complementary means 'completing each other'.

compatible vs Competitive

Competitive means 'wanting to win'; compatible means 'wanting to harmonize'.

Expressions idiomatiques

"Like oil and water"

Two things or people that are completely incompatible.

They are like oil and water; they never agree.

Informal

"A match made in heaven"

Two people or things that are perfectly compatible.

This sauce and this pasta are a match made in heaven.

Informal

"Two peas in a pod"

Two people who are very similar and compatible.

They are like two peas in a pod.

Informal

"Square peg in a round hole"

Someone or something that is not compatible with its environment.

He felt like a square peg in a round hole at the corporate office.

Informal

"On the same page"

To have compatible thinking or understanding.

We need to make sure everyone is on the same page.

Neutral

"Hit it off"

To find someone compatible immediately upon meeting.

They hit it off right away at the party.

Informal

"Cut from the same cloth"

To have very similar and compatible natures.

The two leaders are cut from the same cloth.

Informal

"Sing from the same hymn sheet"

To express compatible or identical opinions in public.

The ministers were all singing from the same hymn sheet.

Informal/UK

"In sync"

Working in a compatible and coordinated way.

The dancers were perfectly in sync.

Neutral

"Speak the same language"

To have compatible ideas or ways of thinking.

As engineers, they both speak the same language.

Informal

Facile à confondre

compatible vs Comparable

Similar sound and spelling.

Comparable is about similarity (A is like B). Compatible is about function (A works with B).

The two cars are comparable in price, but the parts are not compatible.

compatible vs Complementary

Both describe things that go well together.

Complementary means they improve each other by being different. Compatible means they don't clash.

Their skills are complementary, and their personalities are compatible.

compatible vs Congruent

Both mean 'in agreement'.

Congruent is mostly used in geometry or formal logic. Compatible is more general.

The triangles are congruent; their goals are compatible.

compatible vs Consistent

Both mean 'agreeing'.

Consistent is about staying the same over time or matching data. Compatible is about two different things fitting.

His actions are consistent with his compatible nature.

compatible vs Suitable

Both mean 'good for'.

Suitable means 'appropriate for a purpose'. Compatible means 'functionally able to coexist'.

This dress is suitable for the wedding, and the color is compatible with your shoes.

Structures de phrases

Is [thing] compatible with [thing]?

Is this charger compatible with my phone?

[Person] and [Person] are compatible.

John and Mary are compatible.

[Idea] is not compatible with [Idea].

His plan is not compatible with our budget.

A [Adverb] compatible [Noun].

A highly compatible software suite.

The compatibility of [A] and [B] is [Adjective].

The compatibility of the two theories is questionable.

Make [Something] compatible with [Something].

We need to make the app compatible with older phones.

Check if [A] is compatible with [B].

Check if the lens is compatible with the camera.

Whether [A] is compatible with [B] remains [Verb].

Whether this is compatible with our goals remains to be seen.

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common in tech, dating, and medicine.

Erreurs courantes

The software is compatible to my PC. → The software is compatible with my PC.
The standard preposition for compatible is 'with'.
They are very compatable. → They are very compatible.
The word is spelled with an 'i', not an 'a'.
I need to compatible these files. → I need to make these files compatible.
Compatible is an adjective, not a verb.
The two cars are compatible in size. → The two cars are comparable in size.
Use 'comparable' for similarity and 'compatible' for working together.
Is this compatible for the printer? → Is this compatible with the printer?
Avoid using 'for' after compatible.

Astuces

Use 'with'

Always follow 'compatible' with the preposition 'with' when connecting two things.

The 'I' Rule

Remember the 'i' in compatible. It's like 'Integration'.

Use Incompatible

Instead of saying 'not compatible', use 'incompatible' for better flow.

Check Specs

When buying electronics, always look for the word 'compatible' in the specifications.

Values Matter

Compatibility in relationships is usually about shared values, not just shared hobbies.

Avoid Overuse

If you use 'compatible' too much, try 'harmonious' or 'consistent'.

Stress the Second

Say com-PAT-ible, not COM-pat-ible.

Cultural Fit

In job interviews, 'compatibility' often refers to how you fit into the company culture.

Logical Fit

Two ideas are compatible if they can both be true at the same time.

Life Saving

In medicine, compatibility is a technical requirement for safety, not a preference.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

COM-PAT-IBLE: 'COM' (together) + 'PAT' (like a pat on the back) + 'IBLE' (able). If you are 'able' to 'pat' each other on the back 'together', you are compatible.

Association visuelle

Imagine two puzzle pieces that fit together perfectly. One is blue, one is red, but the edges match exactly.

Word Web

Software Hardware Relationships Blood types Logic Harmony Conflict Preposition 'with'

Défi

Try to find three things in your room that are compatible (e.g., a bulb and a lamp) and three things that are incompatible (e.g., a large plug and a small socket).

Origine du mot

Derived from the Medieval Latin 'compatibilis', which comes from the Late Latin 'compati' meaning 'to suffer with'. It entered Middle English via the Old French word 'compatible'.

Sens originel : The original sense was related to 'sympathetic' or 'sharing a feeling'. It evolved to mean 'coexisting in harmony'.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > English

Contexte culturel

Be careful when discussing 'biological compatibility' in social contexts, as it can sometimes sound like eugenics if used incorrectly.

In English-speaking corporate culture, 'compatibility' is often used as a polite way to fire someone: 'He wasn't a good cultural fit' (not compatible).

The 'Compatibility' song (metaphorical) Apple vs. PC 'Get a Mac' commercials Compatibility layers like 'Wine' for Linux

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Technology

System requirements
Backwards compatibility
Driver support
Hardware interface

Dating

Shared values
Lifestyle match
Personality type
Long-term goals

Medicine

Blood group
Tissue matching
Donor recipient
Immune response

Business

Corporate culture
Strategic alignment
Merger synergy
Team dynamics

Logic

Consistent theory
Non-contradictory
Mutual truth
Logical framework

Amorces de conversation

"Do you think two people need to be compatible to have a good relationship?"

"Is your current phone compatible with the latest wireless chargers?"

"How do you check if a new employee is compatible with your team?"

"Do you believe that science and religion are compatible?"

"What is the most incompatible pair of foods you can think of?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe a time you bought something that wasn't compatible with what you already had. What happened?

Reflect on a past friendship. Were you truly compatible, or did you just have one thing in common?

Write about a career that you think would be compatible with your personality and why.

Do you think it's more important for a couple to be compatible or to be willing to change for each other?

Imagine a world where all technology was perfectly compatible. How would life be different?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

In modern English, 'compatible with' is the correct and most common form. 'Compatible to' is rarely used and often considered incorrect in professional writing.

Yes, it is very common to describe people as compatible if they get along well, share values, and can live or work together without conflict.

It means that a new product or system can still work with older versions of software, hardware, or files. For example, a new game console that plays old games.

No, compatible is an adjective. You cannot 'compatible' something. You can 'make something compatible' or 'ensure compatibility'.

It is spelled C-O-M-P-A-T-I-B-L-E. Note the 'i' before the 'b'. A common mistake is spelling it with an 'a' (compatable).

The noun form is 'compatibility'. For example: 'We need to test the compatibility of these two devices.'

Yes, in design, colors are compatible if they look good together and do not clash visually.

It refers to whether different blood types can be mixed during a transfusion without causing a dangerous reaction in the patient.

Yes, 'incompatible' is the standard antonym of compatible, meaning two things cannot work or exist together.

In computing, it is software that allows a system to run programs designed for a different, incompatible system.