At the A1 level, learners are just beginning to grasp basic vocabulary. 'Flessibile' might be introduced in its most literal sense, referring to simple objects that can bend. The focus would be on recognizing the word and its direct physical meaning, such as a bendy toy or a soft material. Sentences would be very simple, like 'La gomma è flessibile.' (The rubber is flexible.) The concept of adaptability would be too abstract for this level. Understanding its grammatical agreement would be minimal, focusing on singular masculine forms.
At the A2 level, learners can handle more common vocabulary and simple sentence structures. 'Flessibile' can be used to describe everyday objects that bend easily, like a hose or a wire. They might also start to understand its application to simple, concrete situations, like a 'fune flessibile' (flexible rope). The idea of a 'schedule' being 'flessibile' might be introduced in a very basic way, for example, 'Lavoro flessibile' (flexible work) as a concept. Basic grammatical agreement, especially with singular nouns, would be expected.
For B1 learners, 'flessibile' becomes a more useful and frequently encountered word. They can understand its use in both literal (physical bendability) and figurative (adaptability) senses. This includes describing people who are adaptable, plans that can be changed, or work schedules. Learners at this level should be able to correctly use 'flessibile' and 'flessibili' in sentences, understanding singular and plural agreement. They can also start to differentiate it from similar words like 'elastico'.
At the B2 level, learners can use 'flessibile' with confidence in a wider range of contexts. They can employ it to discuss professional environments (flexible working hours, adaptable project plans), personal qualities (an open-minded person), and complex physical properties of materials. They should be comfortable using it in nuanced discussions and be able to explain its figurative meanings accurately. They will also be able to distinguish it more clearly from related terms like 'adattabile' and 'pieghevole'.
C1 learners will use 'flessibile' with precision and sophistication. They can analyze its connotations and subtle differences when compared to synonyms like 'adattabile', 'malleabile', or 'pieghevole'. They can use it in formal and informal registers, and in abstract discussions about societal structures, economic models, or psychological traits. They will also be able to recognize and use idiomatic expressions or collocations involving 'flessibile'.
C2 learners will have a complete mastery of 'flessibile'. They will use it effortlessly in any context, understanding its full semantic range and cultural implications. They can engage in highly specialized discussions where precise terminology is crucial, and can also employ it creatively in literary or persuasive writing. They will be fully aware of its etymological roots and its evolution in meaning.

flessibile 30초 만에

  • Flessibile means bendable and adaptable.
  • Use it for objects, people, plans, and ideas.
  • Remember plural: flessibili.
  • It's a B1 level vocabulary word.

The Italian adjective flessibile translates directly to 'flexible' in English. It describes something or someone that can bend easily without breaking, or is adaptable and open to change. Think of a rubber band, a yoga instructor, or a work schedule that can be adjusted. In essence, 'flessibile' conveys the idea of pliability, malleability, and a willingness to accommodate different circumstances or ideas.

Physical Flexibility
This is the most literal meaning. Objects that are 'flessibili' can be bent, twisted, or stretched without damage. For example, a metal rod might be rigid, but a wire is often 'flessibile'.
Adaptability and Openness
Beyond the physical, 'flessibile' is used to describe people, systems, or plans that are adaptable. A 'lavoratore flessibile' might have a schedule that changes, or a 'soluzione flessibile' can be adapted to different needs.
Open-mindedness
In a figurative sense, someone who is 'flessibile' is also open to new ideas and perspectives, not rigidly sticking to their own way of thinking.

La gomma è un materiale molto flessibile.

The rubber is a very flexible material.

You'll hear 'flessibile' used in contexts ranging from describing the properties of materials to characterizing a person's personality or a company's policies. It's a versatile adjective that highlights the ability to yield, adapt, or change without breaking or becoming rigid.

Il nostro orario di lavoro è molto flessibile.

Our work schedule is very flexible.
In the Workshop
Craftspeople and engineers often use 'flessibile' to describe materials like plastic, rubber, or certain types of metal that can be shaped or bent. A 'tubo flessibile' (flexible tube) is a common example.
In the Office
In a professional setting, 'flessibile' might refer to adaptable working hours, a project plan that can be modified, or a team member who can easily switch tasks.
In Personal Life
When talking about people, 'flessibile' suggests someone who is adaptable, easy to get along with, and not set in their ways. This can apply to social interactions, travel plans, or even dietary choices.

I bambini sono naturalmente più flessibili degli adulti.

Children are naturally more flexible than adults.

Using flessibile correctly involves understanding its agreement with the noun it modifies. As an adjective, it must match the gender and number of the noun. For masculine singular nouns, it remains 'flessibile'. For feminine singular nouns, it also remains 'flessibile'. For masculine plural nouns, it becomes 'flessibili', and for feminine plural nouns, it also becomes 'flessibili'.

Questo cavo è molto flessibile.

This cable is very flexible.

Here are various ways to incorporate 'flessibile' into your Italian sentences:

Describing Objects
When referring to physical objects, 'flessibile' highlights their ability to bend or adapt. This can apply to materials, tools, or even parts of machinery.

La bacchetta magica era fatta di un legno flessibile.

The magic wand was made of a flexible wood.
Describing People
When describing people, 'flessibile' suggests adaptability, open-mindedness, and a willingness to change or compromise. It's a positive personal attribute.

È un manager molto flessibile con il suo team.

He is a very flexible manager with his team.
Describing Plans and Systems
This adjective is also perfect for describing schedules, plans, rules, or systems that can be adjusted or modified according to needs.

Offriamo un piano di studi flessibile per gli studenti lavoratori.

We offer a flexible study plan for working students.
In Plural Form
Remember to use the plural form 'flessibili' when referring to multiple items or people.

I suoi genitori sono molto flessibili riguardo agli orari di uscita.

His parents are very flexible regarding curfew.

Le regole del gioco sono abbastanza flessibili.

The rules of the game are quite flexible.

The adjective flessibile is a common word you'll encounter in many everyday Italian conversations and contexts. Its versatility means it pops up in discussions about physical objects, personal traits, and professional arrangements.

Ho comprato un nuovo tubo da giardino, è molto flessibile.

I bought a new garden hose; it's very flexible.
In the Home and DIY
When shopping for household items, or discussing renovations, you'll often hear 'flessibile' used for things like electrical cords, hoses, certain types of flooring, or even furniture that can be reconfigured.

Il mio lavoro mi permette di avere un orario flessibile.

My job allows me to have a flexible schedule.
In the Workplace
Discussions about work arrangements frequently use 'flessibile'. This could refer to 'orario flessibile' (flexible hours), 'lavoro flessibile' (flexible work), or even a 'contratto flessibile' (flexible contract). It implies adaptability in employment terms.

Devi essere flessibile e adattarti alle nuove regole.

You must be flexible and adapt to the new rules.
Describing Personalities and Attitudes
When people talk about character, 'flessibile' is used to describe someone who is adaptable, open-minded, and not stubborn. This is a compliment in many social situations.

La struttura modulare del mobile è molto flessibile.

The modular structure of the furniture is very flexible.
In Education and Training
Educational institutions might offer 'corsi flessibili' (flexible courses) or 'programmi flessibili' (flexible programs) to accommodate different student needs, such as part-time study or online modules.

Questo materasso è abbastanza flessibile da adattarsi alla forma del corpo.

This mattress is flexible enough to adapt to the body's shape.

When learning Italian, learners often make a few common mistakes with the adjective flessibile, primarily related to its grammatical agreement and its figurative usage.

Mistake: La porta è flessibile.

Correct: La porta è flessibile. (No change needed for feminine singular)
Incorrect Agreement (Gender and Number)
The most frequent error is forgetting that adjectives in Italian must agree in gender and number with the noun they modify. Since 'flessibile' ends in '-e', it's invariable for gender in the singular form (masculine and feminine are both 'flessibile'). However, it changes to 'flessibili' in the plural for both genders. Learners might incorrectly use 'flessibile' with plural nouns, or try to change it for feminine singular nouns.

Mistake: Le regole sono flessibile.

Correct: Le regole sono flessibili.
Overusing the Literal Meaning
While 'flessibile' can describe physical bendability, it's also used metaphorically for adaptability and open-mindedness. Learners might stick to only the physical meaning and miss opportunities to use it in social or professional contexts, or conversely, use it for physical objects when a more specific word might be better.

Mistake: La sua mente è flessibile (meaning it's physically bendable).

Correct: La sua mente è flessibile (meaning open-minded and adaptable).
Confusing with Similar Concepts
Sometimes, learners might confuse 'flessibile' with words that imply being loose, weak, or overly compliant. While 'flessibile' implies adaptability, it doesn't necessarily mean lacking structure or principle.

Mistake: Il suo carattere è troppo flessibile (implying weak).

Correct usage implies adaptability, not weakness. A better word for weak might be 'debole'.

Mistake: Un programma flessibile (when referring to multiple programs).

Correct: Programmi flessibili.

While flessibile is a widely used and versatile word, Italian offers several alternatives and related terms that carry nuances of meaning. Understanding these distinctions will enrich your vocabulary and help you express yourself more precisely.

Pieghevole (Adjective)
Meaning: Foldable, bendable.
Usage: This word is more specific to objects that can be folded, like a folding chair ('sedia pieghevole') or a foldable map ('mappa pieghevole'). While something foldable is often flexible, not everything flexible is foldable.
Example: 'Ho bisogno di un tavolo pieghevole per il mio piccolo appartamento.' (I need a foldable table for my small apartment.)
Malleabile (Adjective)
Meaning: Malleable, pliable (especially metals).
Usage: 'Malleabile' is typically used for materials that can be hammered or pressed into shape without breaking, like metals. It can also be used figuratively for people who are easily influenced.
Example: 'L'oro è un metallo molto malleabile.' (Gold is a very malleable metal.)
Adattabile (Adjective)
Meaning: Adaptable.
Usage: This is a very close synonym to 'flessibile' when referring to people, plans, or systems. It emphasizes the ability to adjust to new conditions or requirements.
Example: 'È un lavoratore molto adattabile e impara in fretta.' (He is a very adaptable worker and learns quickly.)
Elastico (Adjective)
Meaning: Elastic, stretchy.
Usage: 'Elastico' specifically refers to the property of returning to its original shape after being stretched or compressed. Think of rubber bands or elastic waistbands.
Example: 'La cintura ha un inserto elastico per maggiore comfort.' (The belt has an elastic insert for greater comfort.)
Sottile (Adjective)
Meaning: Thin, slender.
Usage: While thinness can sometimes contribute to flexibility (e.g., a thin wire is flexible), 'sottile' doesn't inherently mean bendable. It describes dimension.
Example: 'Ha usato un filo molto sottile per ricamare.' (She used a very thin thread for embroidery.)
Limpido (Adjective)
Meaning: Clear, transparent (liquids, glass).
Usage: This word is completely unrelated to flexibility. It describes clarity and purity, typically of liquids or sometimes of intentions.
Example: 'L'acqua di montagna era cristallina e limpida.' (The mountain water was crystalline and clear.)

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The root 'flectere' (to bend) is present in many English words like 'reflect', 'deflect', 'inflect', and 'flexible' itself, highlighting a shared linguistic ancestry.

발음 가이드

UK /flɛˈsɪbɪli/
US /flɛˈsɪbəli/
The stress falls on the second-to-last syllable: fle-SSI-bi-le.
라임이 맞는 단어
visibile possibile sensibile terribile credibile audibile discutibile incredibile
자주 하는 실수
  • Misplacing stress: Saying FLE-ssi-bi-le or fles-si-BI-le.
  • Pronouncing the 'e' at the end too strongly: It should be a light 'leh' or 'lee' sound.
  • Over-articulating the 'i': It's a clear 'ee' sound, not drawn out.

난이도

독해 3/5

At B1 level, 'flessibile' is commonly encountered in reading materials. Learners should be able to understand its literal and common figurative meanings in texts related to work, materials, and personal qualities.

쓰기 3/5

B1 learners can use 'flessibile' correctly in their writing, remembering to apply correct gender and number agreement. They should be able to construct sentences describing bendable objects and adaptable situations.

말하기 3/5

Speaking at B1 requires using 'flessibile' in conversation. Learners should be able to describe things as flexible or talk about being flexible themselves, using the correct plural form 'flessibili' when needed.

듣기 3/5

B1 learners should be able to recognize 'flessibile' when spoken, understanding its context to determine if it refers to physical bendability or adaptability. The plural 'flessibili' should also be recognizable.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

piegare adattare materiale persona piano

다음에 배울 것

rigido inflessibile adattabile pieghevole elastico

고급

plasticità malleabilità resilienza conformarsi plasmare

알아야 할 문법

Adjective Agreement

Masculine singular: il tubo flessibile. Feminine singular: la gomma flessibile. Masculine plural: i tubi flessibili. Feminine plural: le gomme flessibili.

Use of 'molto' and 'poco'

Questo materiale è molto flessibile. (This material is very flexible.) Quella plastica è poco flessibile. (That plastic is not very flexible.)

Comparative 'più... di' / 'meno... di'

Questo cavo è più flessibile di quello. (This cable is more flexible than that one.)

Placement of Adjectives

Adjectives like 'flessibile' usually follow the noun, but can sometimes precede it for emphasis: una flessibile soluzione (a flexible solution).

Using 'flessibile' with verbs like 'essere' and 'rendere'

Il tuo atteggiamento è flessibile. (Your attitude is flexible.) La nuova tecnologia rende il lavoro flessibile. (New technology makes work flexible.)

수준별 예문

1

La palla è flessibile.

The ball is flexible.

Singular, feminine noun 'palla' takes singular adjective 'flessibile'.

2

Il filo è flessibile.

The wire is flexible.

Singular, masculine noun 'filo' takes singular adjective 'flessibile'.

3

Questa gomma è flessibile.

This eraser is flexible.

Demonstrative 'questa' for feminine noun 'gomma'.

4

L'albero è flessibile.

The tree is flexible.

Singular, masculine noun 'albero' starting with a vowel.

5

Il bastone è flessibile.

The stick is flexible.

Singular, masculine noun 'bastone'.

6

La corda è flessibile.

The rope is flexible.

Singular, feminine noun 'corda'.

7

Il tubo è flessibile.

The tube is flexible.

Singular, masculine noun 'tubo'.

8

La plastica è flessibile.

The plastic is flexible.

Singular, feminine noun 'plastica'.

1

Il mio orologio ha un cinturino flessibile.

My watch has a flexible strap.

Possessive adjective 'mio' for masculine noun 'orologio'.

2

Questa sedia è flessibile e comoda.

This chair is flexible and comfortable.

Coordinating conjunction 'e' (and).

3

I bambini sono più flessibili degli adulti.

Children are more flexible than adults.

Comparative structure 'più... di'.

4

Abbiamo bisogno di un piano flessibile.

We need a flexible plan.

Indefinite article 'un' for masculine noun 'piano'.

5

La strada era flessibile a causa della pioggia.

The road was flexible due to the rain.

Past tense 'era' (was).

6

Questo materiale non è molto flessibile.

This material is not very flexible.

Negation 'non'.

7

Il suo carattere è flessibile.

His character is flexible.

Possessive adjective 'suo' for masculine noun 'carattere'.

8

Cerco un lavoro con orari flessibili.

I'm looking for a job with flexible hours.

Plural noun 'orari' requires plural adjective 'flessibili'.

1

La sua capacità di adattamento lo rende un candidato molto flessibile.

His adaptability makes him a very flexible candidate.

Using 'flessibile' to describe a person's professional quality.

2

Il progetto richiede un approccio flessibile per affrontare gli imprevisti.

The project requires a flexible approach to deal with unforeseen events.

Figurative use: 'approccio flessibile'.

3

Le nuove regole del gioco sono più flessibili rispetto alle precedenti.

The new game rules are more flexible compared to the previous ones.

Comparative 'più flessibili rispetto a'.

4

Ho trovato un appartamento con una disposizione interna flessibile.

I found an apartment with a flexible internal layout.

Describing a physical space's adaptability.

5

Le aziende moderne cercano dipendenti flessibili e proattivi.

Modern companies seek flexible and proactive employees.

Plural noun 'dipendenti' requires plural adjective 'flessibili'.

6

Questo tipo di tessuto è molto flessibile e resistente.

This type of fabric is very flexible and resistant.

Combining 'flessibile' with another adjective 'resistente'.

7

Dobbiamo essere flessibili nel nostro modo di pensare per innovare.

We must be flexible in our way of thinking to innovate.

Figurative use: 'flessibili nel modo di pensare'.

8

La politica aziendale è diventata più flessibile riguardo allo smart working.

Company policy has become more flexible regarding remote working.

Discussing policy changes.

1

La natura flessibile del contratto permette di adeguarsi alle fluttuazioni del mercato.

The flexible nature of the contract allows for adaptation to market fluctuations.

Using 'flessibile' as a noun adjunct ('natura flessibile').

2

Un leader efficace deve possedere una mentalità flessibile e saper gestire l'incertezza.

An effective leader must possess a flexible mindset and know how to manage uncertainty.

Figurative use: 'mentalità flessibile'.

3

La modularità del sistema lo rende estremamente flessibile per future espansioni.

The system's modularity makes it extremely flexible for future expansions.

Explaining the reason for flexibility ('modularità').

4

L'insegnante ha adottato un approccio pedagogico flessibile per venire incontro alle diverse esigenze degli studenti.

The teacher adopted a flexible pedagogical approach to meet the diverse needs of the students.

Specific context: 'approccio pedagogico flessibile'.

5

Le normative ambientali sono state criticate per essere troppo rigide e poco flessibili.

Environmental regulations have been criticized for being too rigid and not flexible enough.

Juxtaposing 'flessibile' with its opposite 'rigide'.

6

La sua carriera è stata caratterizzata da una notevole flessibilità, passando da un settore all'altro con agilità.

His career has been characterized by remarkable flexibility, moving from one sector to another with agility.

Using 'flessibilità' as a noun derived from 'flessibile'.

7

È fondamentale che i sistemi educativi siano flessibili per preparare gli studenti alle sfide del XXI secolo.

It is fundamental that educational systems be flexible to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century.

Discussing the importance of flexibility in systems.

8

Il design del prodotto è stato pensato per essere il più flessibile possibile, adattandosi a molteplici utilizzi.

The product design was conceived to be as flexible as possible, adapting to multiple uses.

Using 'il più flessibile possibile'.

1

La resilienza di un'organizzazione si misura anche dalla sua capacità di mantenere un assetto flessibile di fronte alle crisi.

An organization's resilience is also measured by its ability to maintain a flexible structure in the face of crises.

Sophisticated use: 'assetto flessibile'.

2

Il dibattito verte sulla necessità di un'economia più flessibile, capace di rispondere prontamente ai cambiamenti globali.

The debate centers on the need for a more flexible economy, capable of responding promptly to global changes.

Applying 'flessibile' to abstract economic concepts.

3

La sua interpretazione del ruolo era sorprendentemente flessibile, discostandosi dall'originale ma mantenendone lo spirito.

His interpretation of the role was surprisingly flexible, departing from the original but maintaining its spirit.

Describing artistic interpretation.

4

La chirurgia mininvasiva si avvale di strumenti flessibili per raggiungere aree difficilmente accessibili.

Minimally invasive surgery uses flexible instruments to reach hard-to-access areas.

Technical context: medical instruments.

5

La governance della fondazione è stata riformata per renderla più flessibile e meno burocratica.

The foundation's governance has been reformed to make it more flexible and less bureaucratic.

Discussing organizational structure and bureaucracy.

6

Il linguaggio poetico spesso sfrutta la flessibilità semantica delle parole per creare nuove sfumature.

Poetic language often exploits the semantic flexibility of words to create new nuances.

Abstract linguistic concept: 'flessibilità semantica'.

7

Una strategia di comunicazione veramente flessibile deve saper dialogare con pubblici eterogenei.

A truly flexible communication strategy must be able to dialogue with diverse audiences.

Applying to communication strategy.

8

La città sta investendo in infrastrutture più flessibili, in grado di adattarsi ai cambiamenti climatici.

The city is investing in more flexible infrastructure, capable of adapting to climate change.

Urban planning and climate adaptation.

1

La flessibilità del sistema di intelligenza artificiale gli consente di apprendere e adattarsi a compiti inediti, superando i limiti della programmazione rigida.

The AI system's flexibility allows it to learn and adapt to novel tasks, overcoming the limitations of rigid programming.

Advanced AI context, using 'flessibilità' as a noun.

2

La dialettica tra tradizione e innovazione richiede una mente flessibile, capace di discernere il valore duraturo nel passato e di proiettarsi audacemente nel futuro.

The dialectic between tradition and innovation requires a flexible mind, capable of discerning lasting value in the past and projecting boldly into the future.

Philosophical and abstract concept.

3

La flessibilità ontologica del linguaggio, la sua intrinseca capacità di mutare significato e forma, è ciò che ne garantisce la vitalità e l'evoluzione perpetua.

The ontological flexibility of language, its intrinsic ability to change meaning and form, is what guarantees its vitality and perpetual evolution.

Highly academic, philosophical linguistics.

4

Nel campo della fisica teorica, la flessibilità dei modelli matematici permette di esplorare scenari cosmologici alternativi.

In theoretical physics, the flexibility of mathematical models allows for the exploration of alternative cosmological scenarios.

Specialized scientific terminology.

5

La resilienza socio-economica di una comunità è spesso legata alla flessibilità delle sue reti sociali e alla capacità di reinvenzione dei suoi attori.

The socio-economic resilience of a community is often linked to the flexibility of its social networks and the reinvention capacity of its actors.

Sociological and economic analysis.

6

L'arte contemporanea, nella sua accezione più audace, celebra la flessibilità concettuale, sfidando le definizioni prestabilite di opera d'arte.

Contemporary art, in its boldest sense, celebrates conceptual flexibility, challenging pre-established definitions of a work of art.

Art criticism and theory.

7

La flessibilità cognitiva, la capacità di passare agevolmente da un compito all'altro e di adattare le strategie di problem-solving, è una competenza chiave nell'era dell'informazione.

Cognitive flexibility, the ability to switch easily between tasks and adapt problem-solving strategies, is a key competence in the information age.

Psychology and cognitive science.

8

Il design bio-ispirato attinge alla flessibilità intrinseca dei sistemi naturali per creare soluzioni innovative e sostenibili.

Bio-inspired design draws upon the intrinsic flexibility of natural systems to create innovative and sustainable solutions.

Interdisciplinary field: design and biology.

자주 쓰는 조합

orario flessibile
lavoro flessibile
materiale flessibile
persona flessibile
piano flessibile
struttura flessibile
regole flessibili
soluzione flessibile
approccio flessibile
mente flessibile

자주 쓰는 구문

Essere flessibile

— To be flexible; to be adaptable and willing to change or compromise.

È importante essere flessibili quando si lavora in gruppo.

Avere un orario flessibile

— To have flexible working hours; to have a work schedule that can be adjusted.

Molti studenti universitari hanno un orario flessibile.

Un materiale flessibile

— A flexible material; a substance that can bend easily.

La gomma è un materiale flessibile.

Un piano flessibile

— A flexible plan; a plan that can be easily modified or adapted.

Abbiamo bisogno di un piano flessibile per gestire gli imprevisti.

Mantenere un approccio flessibile

— To maintain a flexible approach; to remain adaptable and open to different methods or ideas.

Bisogna mantenere un approccio flessibile nella vita.

Essere flessibili con qualcuno

— To be flexible with someone; to be accommodating or lenient towards them.

I genitori dovrebbero essere flessibili con i loro figli.

Un sistema flessibile

— A flexible system; a system that can be easily changed or adapted.

Il nuovo software è un sistema flessibile.

Una mente flessibile

— A flexible mind; an open and adaptable way of thinking.

La creatività richiede una mente flessibile.

Essere flessibili sulle regole

— To be flexible on rules; to be lenient or willing to make exceptions.

L'insegnante è stato flessibile sulle regole per il compito.

Una soluzione flessibile

— A flexible solution; a solution that can be adapted to various needs or circumstances.

Cerchiamo una soluzione flessibile che si adatti a tutti.

자주 혼동되는 단어

flessibile vs Elastico

'Elastico' specifically refers to the property of returning to its original shape after stretching, like a rubber band. 'Flessibile' is broader and means simply bendable or adaptable.

flessibile vs Rigido

This is the direct opposite of 'flessibile'. 'Rigido' means stiff and unbending, both physically and figuratively.

flessibile vs Pieghevole

'Pieghevole' means foldable. While many foldable items are flexible, not all flexible items can be folded. It's more specific to the action of folding.

혼동하기 쉬운

flessibile vs Elastico

Both describe a quality of yielding under force.

'Elastico' implies returning to the original shape after stretching (elasticity), like a rubber band. 'Flessibile' simply means it can bend without breaking, and doesn't necessarily imply returning to its original form. A metal wire can be flexible but not elastic.

La corda è flessibile ma non elastica. (The rope is flexible but not elastic.)

flessibile vs Rigido

It's the direct antonym.

'Rigido' means stiff, unbending, and inflexible. It's the opposite of 'flessibile'. A rigid object cannot be bent easily, while a flexible one can.

Il bastone di legno era rigido, quello di bambù era flessibile. (The wooden stick was rigid, the bamboo one was flexible.)

flessibile vs Pieghevole

Both relate to changing shape.

'Pieghevole' means foldable – designed to be folded. 'Flessibile' means bendable. A folding chair is 'pieghevole' and also 'flessibile'. A rubber hose is 'flessibile' but not typically 'pieghevole'.

La sedia è pieghevole e anche flessibile. (The chair is foldable and also flexible.)

flessibile vs Adattabile

Both relate to change and accommodation.

'Adattabile' is a synonym for 'flessibile' when referring to people, plans, or systems, emphasizing the ability to adjust to new conditions. 'Flessibile' can also refer to physical bendability, which 'adattabile' does not.

È una persona flessibile e adattabile. (He is a flexible and adaptable person.)

flessibile vs Malleabile

Both describe yielding to force.

'Malleabile' is primarily used for materials (especially metals) that can be hammered or pressed into shape without breaking. 'Flessibile' is more general for bending. A metal sheet might be malleable, while a rubber band is flexible.

Il metallo è malleabile, la gomma è flessibile. (Metal is malleable, rubber is flexible.)

문장 패턴

A2

Subject + è + flessibile.

La gomma è flessibile.

A2

Un/Una + Noun + flessibile

Ho comprato un cavo flessibile.

B1

Subject + sono + flessibili.

Le sue idee sono flessibili.

B1

Avere + un/una + Noun + flessibile

Ho bisogno di un piano di lavoro flessibile.

B1

Essere + molto + flessibile

Sono molto flessibile riguardo agli orari.

B2

Natura + flessibile + di + Noun

La natura flessibile del contratto è un vantaggio.

B2

Rendere + Noun + flessibile

La nuova tecnologia rende il nostro lavoro più flessibile.

C1

Essere + flessibile + nel/nella/nei/nelle + Noun

È importante essere flessibili nel pensiero e nelle azioni.

어휘 가족

명사

flessibilità flexibility (noun)

형용사

flessibile flexible (adjective)

관련

piegare to bend, to fold
adattare to adapt
modificare to modify
cedere to yield, to give way
malleare to make malleable

사용법

frequency

Common

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'flessibile' for plural nouns. flessibili

    The adjective 'flessibile' changes to 'flessibili' in the plural for both masculine and feminine nouns. Forgetting this is a common error. Example: 'I materiali sono flessibili', not 'flessibile'.

  • Confusing 'flessibile' with 'elastico'. Use 'elastico' for things that spring back after stretching, and 'flessibile' for things that just bend.

    'Elastico' implies elasticity (returning to original shape), while 'flessibile' means bendable. A rubber band is both, but a wire is 'flessibile' but not 'elastico'.

  • Applying 'flessibile' only to physical objects. Use 'flessibile' for people, plans, and abstract ideas too.

    The figurative meaning of adaptability is very common. Saying 'Sono flessibile con gli orari' (I'm flexible with hours) is a frequent usage.

  • Incorrectly changing the singular form for feminine nouns. 'Flessibile' is the same for masculine and feminine singular.

    Since 'flessibile' ends in '-e', it does not change for gender in the singular. 'Il tubo è flessibile' and 'La gomma è flessibile'.

  • Using 'flessibile' when 'rigido' is needed. Choose the appropriate antonym.

    'Rigido' means stiff or inflexible, the direct opposite. Using 'flessibile' incorrectly can change the meaning entirely. Example: 'Una persona rigida' (a rigid person) vs. 'Una persona flessibile' (an adaptable person).

Gender and Number Agreement

Remember that 'flessibile' is an adjective ending in '-e', so it's the same for masculine and feminine singular nouns ('il tubo flessibile', 'la gomma flessibile'). However, in the plural, it becomes 'flessibili' for both genders ('i tubi flessibili', 'le gomme flessibili').

Literal vs. Figurative

Pay attention to context. 'Flessibile' can mean physically bendable (like a wire) or adaptable and open to change (like a person or a schedule). Recognizing the context will help you understand the intended meaning.

Common Collocations

Learn common phrases like 'orario flessibile' (flexible hours), 'lavoro flessibile' (flexible work), 'persona flessibile' (flexible person), and 'piano flessibile' (flexible plan). Using these will make your Italian sound more natural.

Stress and Vowels

The stress is on the second-to-last syllable: fle-SSI-bi-le. The final 'e' is usually light. Practice saying it aloud to get the rhythm right.

Vs. Elastico

While both relate to yielding, 'elastico' implies returning to its original shape after stretching (elasticity), whereas 'flessibile' simply means bendable without breaking. A rubber band is both 'elastico' and 'flessibile'.

Workplace Relevance

'Flessibile' is a very common word in discussions about employment, schedules, and project management. Understanding its usage here is highly practical for professional communication in Italian.

Visual Association

Imagine a willow tree bending gracefully in the wind. This visual of natural bendability can help you remember the meaning of 'flessibile'.

Exploring 'Adattabile'

'Adattabile' is a strong synonym for 'flessibile' when referring to people or plans that can adjust to new situations. It's useful to know both words to express nuances.

Opposite: Rigido

The direct opposite of 'flessibile' is 'rigido' (stiff, rigid). Contrasting these two words can help solidify the meaning of 'flessibile'.

Sentence Building

Try to create your own sentences using 'flessibile' in different contexts – describing an object, a person's attitude, or a work schedule. This active practice is key to mastery.

암기하기

기억법

Imagine a 'flexi-bill' that you can bend easily. The 'flexi-bill' sounds like 'flessibile'. This flexible bill bends without breaking, just like the word's meaning.

시각적 연상

Picture a long, thin willow branch bending gracefully in the wind without snapping. The visual of this 'flessibile' branch helps connect the word to its meaning of bendability.

Word Web

Bendable Adaptable Pliable Malleable Yielding Open-minded Adjustable Supple

챌린지

Try to describe five different objects or situations you encounter today using the word 'flessibile', both literally and figuratively. For example, 'My new phone case is very flessibile,' and 'My boss is flessibile about deadlines.'

어원

The word 'flessibile' comes from the Latin word 'flexibilis', meaning 'easily bent, pliable'. This Latin term itself derives from the verb 'flectere', meaning 'to bend'.

원래 의미: Easily bent, capable of bending.

Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > Italian

문화적 맥락

The term 'flessibile' is generally positive. When applied to people, it implies desirable traits like adaptability and open-mindedness. However, in certain contexts, excessive 'flessibilità' could be misconstrued as a lack of conviction or principle, though this is less common than the positive connotations.

In English-speaking cultures, 'flexible' is also a highly valued trait, particularly in professional settings, emphasizing adaptability and willingness to change. The nuances might differ slightly, with 'flessibile' sometimes carrying a stronger sense of physical pliability.

The Italian phrase 'Essere flessibili' is often used in business and management seminars to promote adaptability in the workplace. In Italian fashion and design, the concept of 'flessibilità' is often applied to materials and structures, creating garments and objects that adapt to the wearer or user. The Italian approach to family life sometimes emphasizes flexibility in roles and expectations, allowing for adaptation to individual needs and circumstances.

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Describing physical objects and materials

  • un tubo flessibile
  • un materiale flessibile
  • una corda flessibile
  • una bacchetta flessibile

Talking about work and schedules

  • orario flessibile
  • lavoro flessibile
  • contratto flessibile
  • orari flessibili

Describing personal qualities and attitudes

  • persona flessibile
  • mente flessibile
  • essere flessibile
  • un approccio flessibile

Discussing plans, rules, and systems

  • piano flessibile
  • regole flessibili
  • soluzione flessibile
  • struttura flessibile

Comparing flexibility

  • più flessibile di
  • meno flessibile di
  • molto flessibile
  • poco flessibile

대화 시작하기

"Cosa pensi dell'orario flessibile al lavoro?"

"Hai mai usato un materiale molto flessibile per un progetto?"

"Come descriveresti una persona flessibile?"

"Quali sono i vantaggi di avere un piano flessibile?"

"Pensi che sia importante essere flessibili nella vita?"

일기 주제

Scrivi di un momento in cui hai dovuto essere molto flessibile per raggiungere un obiettivo.

Descrivi un oggetto che possiedi che è particolarmente flessibile e come lo usi.

Rifletti su come la flessibilità (o la sua mancanza) ha influenzato le tue relazioni.

Immagina una città ideale con infrastrutture flessibili. Come sarebbe?

Scrivi una breve storia in cui il protagonista scopre il valore della flessibilità.

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

The plural form of the adjective 'flessibile' is 'flessibili'. This applies to both masculine and feminine plural nouns. For example, 'un tubo flessibile' (a flexible tube) becomes 'due tubi flessibili' (two flexible tubes), and 'una gomma flessibile' (a flexible eraser) becomes 'molte gomme flessibili' (many flexible erasers).

No, 'flessibile' has both a literal and a figurative meaning. Literally, it means able to bend easily without breaking, like a rubber band. Figuratively, it describes people, plans, or systems that are adaptable, open-minded, and willing to change or compromise. For example, 'un orario flessibile' means flexible working hours.

'Elastico' specifically refers to the property of returning to its original shape after being stretched or compressed (elasticity), like a rubber band. 'Flessibile' is broader; it simply means bendable without breaking. A metal wire can be flexible but not elastic.

'Adattabile' is a very close synonym for 'flessibile' when referring to people, plans, or systems, emphasizing the ability to adjust to new conditions. 'Flessibile' can also be used for physical bendability, which 'adattabile' does not cover. In many figurative contexts, they are interchangeable, but 'adattabile' often highlights the action of adapting more strongly.

Yes, absolutely. Describing a person as 'flessibile' is usually a compliment. It means they are adaptable, open-minded, easy-going, and willing to compromise or change their plans when necessary. It suggests they are not rigid or stubborn.

The most common antonym for 'flessibile' is 'rigido', which means stiff, unbending, or inflexible. Another antonym is 'inflessibile', meaning unwilling to bend, change, or compromise. 'Duro' (hard) can also imply a lack of flexibility in many contexts.

'Flessibile' is used in both formal and informal contexts. In formal settings, it might describe business policies or technical materials. In informal settings, it could describe a person's attitude or a simple object. Its versatility makes it applicable across various registers.

The pronunciation is roughly 'fleh-SSI-bee-leh'. The stress is on the second-to-last syllable ('SSI'). The 'e' at the end is a light sound, not strongly pronounced.

The noun form is 'flessibilità', which means 'flexibility'.

Yes, 'flessibile' is commonly used for abstract concepts. You can talk about 'un piano flessibile' (a flexible plan), 'un approccio flessibile' (a flexible approach), 'una mente flessibile' (a flexible mind), or 'un sistema flessibile' (a flexible system).

셀프 테스트 10 질문

/ 10 correct

Perfect score!

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