At the A1 level, 'flexibel' is one of those 'easy' words because it sounds like English. You use it in very simple sentences to talk about time. You might say 'Ich bin flexibel' when a teacher asks when you want to have a lesson. It is used as a basic description of a person or a situation. You don't need to worry much about grammar here, as you mostly use it after 'ist' or 'bin'. It's a great word to show you can express a preference for being open to suggestions. You learn it alongside words for time and hobbies. For example, 'Am Samstag bin ich flexibel'. This level focuses on the basic meaning: 'I don't have a fixed plan'.
At A2, you start using 'flexibel' in more professional and social contexts. You learn that it can describe work hours ('flexible Arbeitszeiten'). This is where the grammar becomes important: you must learn to drop the 'e' when you put 'flexibel' before a noun (e.g., 'flexible' instead of 'flexibele'). You use it to describe your skills in a simple CV or job interview. You also start to use it with basic adverbs like 'sehr' or 'nicht'. You understand that it can apply to both people and things. You might describe a travel plan as 'flexibel' because you haven't booked all the hotels yet. This level is about expanding the word from just 'time' to 'situations' and 'objects'.
By B1, you use 'flexibel' to discuss personality traits and societal changes. You can explain *why* something needs to be flexible. You use it in subordinate clauses: 'Es ist wichtig, dass wir flexibel bleiben, weil sich die Situation ändern kann.' You also encounter the noun 'die Flexibilität' and the verb 'sich anpassen'. You start to see 'flexibel' in news articles about the economy or labor laws. You can contrast it with 'starr' (rigid) or 'festgelegt' (fixed). You also learn to use the comparative 'flexibler' to make recommendations. For instance, 'Wir sollten flexibler sein, um mehr Kunden zu gewinnen.' This level moves from simple description to argumentation and nuanced characterization.
At B2, 'flexibel' becomes a tool for professional negotiation and abstract discussion. You use it in business German to talk about 'flexible Fertigungssysteme' (flexible manufacturing systems) or 'flexible Preisgestaltung'. You understand the subtle difference between 'flexibel' and 'anpassungsfähig'. You can use the word in more complex grammatical structures, like with the genitive or specific prepositions: 'Trotz der flexiblen Handhabung der Regeln...' You also recognize when 'flexibel' is being used as a corporate euphemism for 'unpredictable'. You can discuss the pros and cons of a 'flexible' lifestyle (the 'digital nomad' concept). Your vocabulary includes related terms like 'Flexibilisierung' (the process of making something flexible).
At the C1 level, you use 'flexibel' with high precision. You might use it in academic contexts to describe the 'flexible' nature of language or the 'flexible' response of a biological system to stress. You are aware of the stylistic weight of the word. You can use it in sophisticated idioms or metaphors. You might discuss 'kognitive Flexibilität' in a psychological context. You are also able to critique the over-use of the word in modern neoliberal discourse. You can use it in formal writing to describe policy frameworks. Your understanding of the word includes its etymological roots and its relationship to other Latinate words in German. You can distinguish between 'flexibel' and 'elastisch' in a physics or engineering context with ease.
At C2, you have a near-native grasp of 'flexibel'. you can use it in literary analysis to describe a character's 'flexible' morals or in a philosophical debate about the 'flexible' nature of truth. You understand all the subtle connotations and can use the word ironically or sarcastically. You can effortlessly switch between 'flexibel' and its many synonyms (biegsam, geschmeidig, variabel, dehnbar) to achieve the exact tone you want. You can write complex essays on 'Die Flexibilisierung der modernen Gesellschaft' and its impact on the individual. The word is no longer just a vocabulary item; it's a concept you can manipulate to express complex, multi-layered thoughts in high-level German.

Flexibel 30秒了解

  • Flexibel means adaptable or bendable, used for schedules, people, and materials.
  • A key grammar rule is dropping the 'e' when adding endings: flexible, flexibler.
  • It is a highly positive trait in German work culture, often linked to 'Gleitzeit'.
  • Pronounced fle-XI-bel with a sharp 'ks' sound for the 'x'.

The German adjective flexibel is a versatile and essential word in modern German, mirroring its English counterpart 'flexible' but carrying specific nuances in usage, declension, and cultural context. At its core, it describes something that can be bent without breaking, or more commonly in daily life, something or someone that can adapt to changing circumstances. Whether you are discussing your work schedule, the physical properties of a material, or your personality, 'flexibel' is the go-to term. In Germany, a culture often stereotyped as rigid and orderly, the word 'flexibel' has become a highly valued trait in the modern 'Arbeitswelt' (professional world).

Physical Flexibility
In a literal sense, it refers to materials. A plastic pipe or a gymnastic athlete can be described as flexibel. However, for physical human flexibility, Germans often prefer 'gelenkig' or 'biegsam'.

Das Material ist extrem flexibel und bricht nicht.

Temporal Flexibility
This is the most common usage. It refers to 'Gleitzeit' (flextime) or being able to meet at different times. If you tell a friend 'Ich bin flexibel', you are saying you have no fixed plans and can adjust to their schedule.

In professional contexts, being 'flexibel' is often listed as a requirement in job advertisements. It implies a willingness to work overtime, travel, or take on different roles. In the context of globalization and digital transformation, 'Flexibilität' is seen as a survival skill for companies. The word entered the German language through Latin 'flexibilis' and French 'flexible', and it has retained its status as a 'Bildungswort' (educated word) while becoming common in colloquial speech. You will hear it in negotiations, in sports, and in casual social planning. It is an A2 level word because while the concept is simple, the declension and its role in compound nouns (like Flexibilisierung) are more advanced.

Wir brauchen eine flexible Lösung für dieses Problem.

Mental Flexibility
This describes 'geistige Flexibilität'—the ability to think outside the box or change one's mind when presented with new evidence. It is the opposite of 'stur' (stubborn) or 'dogmatisch'.

Using flexibel correctly in a sentence requires an understanding of its position and the 'e-drop' rule. As an adjective, it can be used predicatively (after a verb like 'sein') or attributively (before a noun). When used predicatively, it never changes its form. However, when it comes before a noun, it must take the appropriate adjective ending. The most important rule for 'flexibel' is that the 'e' in the second syllable disappears when an ending is added: flexibel -> flexib-le, flexib-ler, flexib-les.

Meine Arbeitszeiten sind sehr flexibel.

In the sentence above, 'flexibel' is predicative, so it remains in its base form. This is the easiest way for A2 learners to use the word. You can describe people, objects, or systems this way. If you want to use it more naturally, you might combine it with adverbs like 'äußerst' (extremely), 'relativ' (relatively), or 'nicht besonders' (not particularly).

Attributive Usage
When placing it before a noun, remember the 'e' drop. Example: 'Ein flexibler Mitarbeiter' (A flexible employee). Here, 'flexibler' has the masculine nominative ending '-er'. Notice how 'flexibel' became 'flexibl-'.

Wir suchen jemanden mit flexiblen Arbeitszeiten.

In this case, 'flexiblen' is plural dative (or accusative depending on the preposition), and the 'e' is dropped. This pattern applies to almost all German adjectives ending in -el (like 'dunkel' -> 'dunkle'). Understanding this will help you sound much more like a native speaker. You should also consider the preposition 'in'. Often, we are flexible *in* a certain area: 'Er ist flexibel in seiner Planung' (He is flexible in his planning).

Comparative and Superlative
To compare, use 'flexibler' (more flexible) and 'am flexibelsten' (most flexible). 'Dieser Plan ist flexibler als der letzte.' Note that in the comparative 'flexibler', the 'e' from the root IS kept because the ending is just '-er', but in many regions, speakers might still contract it.

You will encounter flexibel in a wide array of environments, ranging from the corporate boardroom to the yoga studio. Its frequency in modern German reflects the societal shift toward agility and adaptability. In the workplace, 'Flexibilität' is a buzzword. You'll hear HR managers talk about 'flexible Arbeitsmodelle' (flexible work models), which usually refers to working from home (Homeoffice) or having variable start and end times.

Können wir den Termin verschieben? Ich bin da ganz flexibel.

In everyday social life, 'flexibel' is the lubricant of social planning. If you are organizing a dinner with friends, someone might say, 'Ich bin zeitlich flexibel', meaning they can come whenever it suits the rest of the group. It conveys a sense of being easy-going and uncomplicated ('unkompliziert').

In News and Media
News reports often use 'flexibel' when discussing political agreements or economic policies. For example, 'eine flexible Gestaltung der Renteneintrittsalters' (a flexible design of the retirement age). It suggests a system that isn't 'one-size-fits-all'.

In technical contexts, you will find it in product descriptions. A 'flexibler Schlauch' (flexible hose) or 'flexible Displays'. Here, it strictly refers to physical properties. In sports, especially yoga or gymnastics, a trainer might tell you to become more 'flexibel', though they are more likely to use 'dehnen' (to stretch) or 'beweglich' (mobile).

The Negative Connotation
Interestingly, 'flexibel' can sometimes be used euphemistically. If a company says they need 'flexible Mitarbeiter', it might be a coded way of saying they expect you to work late without extra pay. Context is key.

Even though flexibel looks exactly like the English 'flexible', learners often stumble over its pronunciation and its specific grammatical behavior in German. The most common mistake is failing to drop the 'e' during adjective declension. Many learners say 'das flexibele System' instead of the correct 'das flexible System'. This 'e' elision is a strict rule for adjectives ending in -el.

Falsch: Ein flexibeler Plan. Richtig: Ein flexibler Plan.

Another mistake involves the pronunciation of the 'x'. In German, 'x' is always pronounced as /ks/. Some English speakers might try to soften it or pronounce it like a 'z', but it should be sharp. The stress is on the second syllable: fle-XI-bel. Misplacing the stress can make the word hard to recognize for native speakers.

False Friends and Nuance
While 'flexibel' is a good translation for most contexts, learners often use it for 'resilient' or 'elastic'. If you mean a rubber band, use 'elastisch'. If you mean a person's ability to bounce back from hardship, 'belastbar' or 'resilient' is better. 'Flexibel' is specifically about adaptation and bending.

Prepositional errors are also frequent. Learners often use 'mit' (with) because of English influence ('flexible with...'). In German, we use 'bei' or 'in' or 'in Bezug auf'. For example: 'Wir sind flexibel beim Preis' (We are flexible regarding the price) or 'Er ist flexibel in seiner Zeitgestaltung'.

Confusion with 'Beweglich'
Learners often say 'Ich bin flexibel' when they mean they can move their body well. While not wrong, 'beweglich' is the more natural word for physical mobility. 'Flexibel' sounds more like a personality trait or a schedule status.

To truly master German, you need to know when to use flexibel and when a more specific synonym would be better. German is a language of precision, and while 'flexibel' is a great 'all-rounder', it can sometimes feel a bit generic or like corporate jargon.

Anpassungsfähig
This is a powerful compound word (anpassen = to adjust + fähig = capable). It describes the *ability* to adapt. It is often used for biological evolution or for people who can survive in any social environment. 'Ein anpassungsfähiger Mensch' is someone who fits in everywhere.

Chamäleons sind extrem anpassungsfähig.

Variabel
This focuses on changeability. Use this for costs, sizes, or parameters. 'Die Kosten sind variabel' (The costs are variable). It sounds more technical and less personal than 'flexibel'.

If you are talking about being easy-going, 'unkompliziert' or 'locker' (casual/relaxed) are great alternatives. 'Er ist ein lockerer Typ' suggests he won't mind if plans change. On the other hand, if you are talking about physical materials, 'biegsam' (bendable) or 'geschmeidig' (supple/smooth) are better choices. 'Geschmeidig' is often used for leather or a graceful dancer.

Dehnbar
Literally 'stretchable'. It is often used figuratively in the phrase 'ein dehnbarer Begriff' (a stretchable concept), meaning something that can be interpreted in many ways, often used for laws or rules that aren't clear.

How Formal Is It?

趣味小知识

The word entered German in the 17th century but only became a common everyday word in the late 20th century with the rise of modern labor markets.

发音指南

UK /flɛˈksiːbl̩/
US /flɛkˈsibəl/
Second syllable (fle-XI-bel).
押韵词
sensibel kompatibel Fibel Bibel Zwiebel (partial) übel (partial) penibel instabil (partial)
常见错误
  • Stressing the first syllable like in English.
  • Pronouncing 'x' like 'z'.
  • Not making the 'i' long enough.

难度评级

阅读 1/5

Very easy to recognize for English speakers.

写作 3/5

Tricky because of the 'e' elision in declension.

口语 2/5

Easy, but watch the 'x' sound and stress.

听力 1/5

Clearly audible in most contexts.

接下来学什么

前置知识

sein Zeit Arbeit können machen

接下来学习

die Flexibilität anpassungsfähig biegsam starr reagieren

高级

die Flexibilisierung die Ambiguitätstoleranz die Agilität die Anpassungsleistung die Dehnbarkeit

需要掌握的语法

Adjective Elision (-el)

flexibel -> flexible (the 'e' before 'l' drops).

Predicative Adjectives

Der Plan ist flexibel. (No ending needed).

Attributive Adjectives

Ein flexibler Plan. (Ending matches gender/case).

Comparative Formation

flexibel -> flexibler (add -er).

Superlative Formation

am flexibelsten (add -sten).

按水平分级的例句

1

Ich bin heute flexibel.

I am flexible today.

Predicative use, no ending.

2

Bist du flexibel?

Are you flexible?

Question form.

3

Der Termin ist flexibel.

The appointment is flexible.

Subject + verb + adjective.

4

Wir sind flexibel am Wochenende.

We are flexible on the weekend.

Plural subject.

5

Meine Zeit ist flexibel.

My time is flexible.

Possessive pronoun.

6

Ist das flexibel?

Is that flexible?

Simple demonstrative.

7

Ich habe keine flexiblen Pläne.

I have no flexible plans.

Attributive use, plural accusative ending -en, note the 'e' drop.

8

Er ist nicht flexibel.

He is not flexible.

Negation with 'nicht'.

1

Ich suche einen flexiblen Job.

I am looking for a flexible job.

Masculine accusative ending -en.

2

Haben Sie flexible Arbeitszeiten?

Do you have flexible working hours?

Plural accusative ending -e.

3

Das ist ein flexibles System.

That is a flexible system.

Neuter nominative ending -es.

4

Wir brauchen eine flexible Lösung.

We need a flexible solution.

Feminine accusative ending -e.

5

Können wir flexibel sein?

Can we be flexible?

Modal verb 'können'.

6

Ich bin bei der Uhrzeit flexibel.

I am flexible with the time.

Preposition 'bei' + dative.

7

Sie ist eine flexible Mitarbeiterin.

She is a flexible employee.

Feminine nominative ending -e.

8

Der Plan muss flexibel bleiben.

The plan must remain flexible.

Modal verb 'müssen' + 'bleiben'.

1

In meinem Beruf muss ich sehr flexibel reagieren.

In my profession, I have to react very flexibly.

Adverbial use.

2

Dank flexibler Arbeitsmodelle arbeite ich oft von zu Hause.

Thanks to flexible work models, I often work from home.

Genitive plural ending -er.

3

Ein flexibler Geist ist wichtig für den Erfolg.

A flexible mind is important for success.

Masculine nominative ending -er.

4

Wir müssen flexibler werden, um zu überleben.

We must become more flexible to survive.

Comparative form 'flexibler'.

5

Es gibt viele Vorteile bei einer flexiblen Gestaltung.

There are many advantages to a flexible design.

Dative feminine ending -en.

6

Manche Chefs sind leider gar nicht flexibel.

Some bosses are unfortunately not flexible at all.

Emphasis with 'gar nicht'.

7

Flexibel zu sein bedeutet, sich anzupassen.

To be flexible means to adapt.

Infinitive clause.

8

Die Preise sind dieses Jahr besonders flexibel.

The prices are particularly flexible this year.

Predicative use with plural subject.

1

Die Verhandlungen erfordern ein hohes Maß an flexibler Einstellung.

The negotiations require a high degree of flexible attitude.

Genitive feminine ending -er.

2

Durch flexible Preisgestaltung konnten wir den Umsatz steigern.

Through flexible pricing, we were able to increase sales.

Feminine accusative with preposition 'durch'.

3

Das Unternehmen setzt auf eine flexible Organisationsstruktur.

The company relies on a flexible organizational structure.

Feminine accusative with 'auf'.

4

Wir bieten unseren Kunden flexible Vertragslaufzeiten an.

We offer our customers flexible contract terms.

Plural accusative ending -e.

5

In einer globalisierten Welt ist Flexibilität ein Muss.

In a globalized world, flexibility is a must.

Noun form 'Flexibilität'.

6

Die Software ist flexibel anpassbar an Kundenwünsche.

The software is flexibly adaptable to customer requests.

Adverbial use modifying another adjective.

7

Er reagierte flexibel auf die unerwartete Kritik.

He reacted flexibly to the unexpected criticism.

Prepositional object 'auf + accusative'.

8

Flexible Arbeitszeitkonten sind bei Mitarbeitern beliebt.

Flexible working time accounts are popular among employees.

Plural nominative ending -e.

1

Die flexible Handhabung der Vorschriften stieß auf Kritik.

The flexible handling of the regulations met with criticism.

Feminine nominative with definite article.

2

Kognitive Flexibilität ist eine Kernkompetenz der Zukunft.

Cognitive flexibility is a core competence of the future.

Feminine nominative.

3

Das System muss flexibel genug sein, um Schocks abzufedern.

The system must be flexible enough to cushion shocks.

Adverbial 'genug'.

4

Eine flexible Architektur erlaubt spätere Erweiterungen.

A flexible architecture allows for later expansions.

Feminine nominative.

5

Die Sprache ist ein flexibles Instrument des Ausdrucks.

Language is a flexible instrument of expression.

Neuter nominative.

6

Wir müssen die Parameter flexibel justieren.

We must adjust the parameters flexibly.

Adverbial usage.

7

Trotz flexibler Strategien blieb der Erfolg aus.

Despite flexible strategies, success did not materialize.

Genitive plural with 'trotz'.

8

Die Grenze zwischen Arbeit und Freizeit wird immer flexibler.

The boundary between work and leisure is becoming increasingly flexible.

Comparative predicative.

1

Die ontologische Flexibilität dieses Begriffs ist bemerkenswert.

The ontological flexibility of this concept is remarkable.

Noun form in a complex subject.

2

Er bewies eine flexible Moral, wenn es um seinen Vorteil ging.

He demonstrated a flexible morality when it came to his advantage.

Feminine accusative.

3

Die flexible Natur des Völkerrechts ermöglicht diplomatische Spielräume.

The flexible nature of international law allows for diplomatic leeway.

Feminine nominative.

4

In der Quantenphysik sind Zeit und Raum keine starren, sondern flexible Größen.

In quantum physics, time and space are not rigid, but flexible quantities.

Plural nominative.

5

Die Komponistin nutzt flexible Rhythmen, um Spannung zu erzeugen.

The composer uses flexible rhythms to create tension.

Plural accusative.

6

Man muss flexibel im Geiste bleiben, um nicht zu verknöchern.

One must remain flexible in spirit in order not to calcify.

Fixed expression 'im Geiste'.

7

Die flexible Auslegung des Testaments führte zu jahrelangen Rechtsstreitigkeiten.

The flexible interpretation of the will led to years of legal disputes.

Feminine nominative.

8

Das Werk besticht durch seine flexible Formgebung.

The work impresses with its flexible shaping.

Feminine accusative with 'durch'.

常见搭配

flexible Arbeitszeiten
geistig flexibel
zeitlich flexibel
flexibel reagieren
äußerst flexibel
flexibel einsetzbar
flexible Lösung
flexibler Umgang
flexibles System
kaum flexibel

常用短语

Ich bin da flexibel.

— I'm open to suggestions regarding this.

Wann treffen wir uns? – Ich bin da flexibel.

Flexibel wie eine Weide.

— Very adaptable (like a willow tree).

In der Krise war er flexibel wie eine Weide.

Völlig flexibel sein.

— To have no constraints at all.

Heute bin ich völlig flexibel.

Flexibel bleiben.

— To keep options open.

Wir müssen bei der Planung flexibel bleiben.

Eine flexible Handhabung.

— A non-rigid application of rules.

Die flexible Handhabung der Gesetze half den Bürgern.

Zeitlich und örtlich flexibel.

— Flexible in terms of time and location.

Der Job ist zeitlich und örtlich flexibel.

Nicht besonders flexibel.

— Rather rigid.

Die Bahn ist bei Verspätungen nicht besonders flexibel.

Flexibel auf Kundenwünsche eingehen.

— To respond adaptably to customer needs.

Wir gehen flexibel auf Ihre Wünsche ein.

Ein flexibler Geist.

— An open and adaptable mind.

Er hat sich einen flexiblen Geist bewahrt.

Flexibel gestaltet.

— Designed in a flexible way.

Der Kurs ist flexibel gestaltet.

容易混淆的词

Flexibel vs elastisch

Elastisch is for physical elasticity (rubber bands); flexibel is broader.

Flexibel vs beweglich

Beweglich is mostly for physical movement/agility.

Flexibel vs anpassbar

Anpassbar means 'can be adjusted' (usually for settings/tools).

习语与表达

"Sich wie ein Fähnchen im Wind drehen"

— To be *too* flexible (opportunistic).

Er hat keine eigene Meinung, er dreht sich wie ein Fähnchen im Wind.

informal
"Fünf gerade sein lassen"

— To be flexible with rules/perfection.

Man muss auch mal fünf gerade sein lassen.

colloquial
"Über den Tellerrand schauen"

— To think flexibly/broadly.

Wir müssen über den Tellerrand schauen.

neutral
"Mit dem Strom schwimmen"

— To go with the flow (passive flexibility).

Er schwimmt immer mit dem Strom.

neutral
"Alles unter einen Hut bringen"

— To manage multiple (flexible) tasks.

Sie bringt Job und Kinder unter einen Hut.

neutral
"Den Gürtel enger schnallen"

— To adapt to financial hardship.

Wir müssen den Gürtel enger schnallen.

neutral
"Auf zwei Hochzeiten tanzen"

— Trying to be too flexible/present.

Er versucht auf zwei Hochzeiten zu tanzen.

informal
"Die Flinte nicht ins Korn werfen"

— Staying flexible/resilient.

Wir werfen die Flinte nicht ins Korn.

neutral
"Ein dehnbarer Begriff sein"

— To be a vague/flexible term.

Reich sein ist ein dehnbarer Begriff.

neutral
"Sich nicht in die Karten schauen lassen"

— Staying flexible by being secretive.

Der Chef lässt sich nicht in die Karten schauen.

neutral

容易混淆

Flexibel vs flexibel vs. elastisch

Both mean 'flexible' in English.

Elastisch implies returning to the original shape. Flexibel implies the ability to bend or adapt.

Ein Gummiband ist elastisch, ein Plan ist flexibel.

Flexibel vs flexibel vs. anpassungsfähig

Synonyms for adaptable.

Anpassungsfähig is more about a deep-seated ability to survive or fit in. Flexibel is often about scheduling or immediate response.

Er ist ein anpassungsfähiger Einwanderer.

Flexibel vs flexibel vs. variabel

Both imply change.

Variabel is more technical/mathematical. Flexibel is more human/practical.

Die Kosten sind variabel.

Flexibel vs flexibel vs. dehnbar

Both involve stretching/bending.

Dehnbar is 'stretchable'. Often used for 'dehnbarer Begriff' (loose definition).

Der Stoff ist dehnbar.

Flexibel vs flexibel vs. geschmeidig

Both mean supple.

Geschmeidig has a connotation of elegance or smoothness (leather/movement).

Geschmeidiges Leder.

句型

A1

Ich bin [Adjektiv].

Ich bin flexibel.

A2

Ich habe [Adjektiv] [Nomen].

Ich habe flexible Arbeitszeiten.

B1

Es ist wichtig, [Adjektiv] zu sein.

Es ist wichtig, flexibel zu sein.

B2

Wegen der [Adjektiv] [Nomen]...

Wegen der flexiblen Zeiten...

C1

Eine [Adjektiv] [Nomen] ermöglicht...

Eine flexible Struktur ermöglicht...

C2

In Anbetracht der [Adjektiv] [Nomen]...

In Anbetracht der flexiblen Marktlage...

A2

Bist du [Adjektiv]?

Bist du flexibel?

B1

Wir brauchen [Adjektiv] [Nomen].

Wir brauchen flexible Lösungen.

词族

名词

die Flexibilität
die Flexibilisierung

动词

flexibilisieren

形容词

flexibel
unflexibel

相关

biegen
die Beugung
der Reflex
die Reflexion
das Flexion

如何使用

frequency

Extremely high in professional and social planning.

常见错误
  • Ich bin flexibeler. Ich bin flexibler.

    The comparative form drops the 'e' only optionally in some dialects, but 'flexibler' is the standard spelling.

  • Ein flexibele Plan. Ein flexibler Plan.

    Attributive adjectives ending in -el MUST drop the 'e' before the 'l' when an ending is added.

  • Ich bin flexibel mit den Zeiten. Ich bin flexibel bei den Zeiten.

    While 'mit' is understood, 'bei' or 'in' is more idiomatic in German.

  • Die Flexibelheit. Die Flexibilität.

    The noun ending for -el adjectives of Latin origin is usually -ität, not -heit.

  • Pronouncing 'x' like 'sh'. Pronouncing 'x' as 'ks'.

    The German 'x' is always a hard 'ks' sound.

小贴士

The 'e' Elision

Whenever you add an ending to an adjective ending in -el (like flexibel or dunkel), delete the 'e' before the 'l'. This is a consistent rule.

Workplace Buzzword

If you see 'Flexibilität' in a job ad, be prepared to talk about how you handle changing schedules.

Stress the Middle

Don't say FLE-xibel. Say fle-XI-bel. The long 'i' sound is the heart of the word.

Polite Refusal

If you can't do something at a specific time, say: 'Um 10 Uhr kann ich nicht, aber danach bin ich flexibel.'

German Directness

If a German says 'Wir müssen flexibel bleiben', it's often a warning that the plan is likely to change.

Avoid Overuse

In high-level writing, try synonyms like 'anpassungsfähig' or 'versatil' to sound more sophisticated.

Visual Link

Think of a 'flex' (angle grinder) being used on a 'flexible' metal pipe.

Adverbial Use

You can use 'flexibel' as an adverb without any changes: 'Er arbeitet flexibel.'

Easy-going

Calling someone 'ein flexibler Typ' is a compliment in a social setting.

Material Science

In technical German, 'flexibel' is often used for cables and hoses.

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of a 'flexible' person doing 'flexing' at the gym. They can bend their schedule as easily as they bend their arms.

视觉联想

Imagine a rubber clock melting like a Dalí painting—it is 'flexibel' in time.

Word Web

Zeit Arbeit Sport Planung Material Geist Lösung Anpassung

挑战

Try to use 'flexibel' in three different sentences today: one about your time, one about a person, and one about an object.

词源

Derived from the Latin 'flexibilis' (pliant, flexible), from 'flectere' (to bend).

原始含义: Capable of being bent.

Indo-European (via Latin and French).

文化背景

Be careful using 'flexibel' in employment contracts; it can imply unpaid availability.

English speakers find this word easy as it is a cognate, but must watch the spelling change in German.

The concept of 'Flexible Spezialisierung' in economic theory. Yoga culture in Berlin. Modern 'New Work' movements.

在生活中练习

真实语境

Job Interview

  • Ich bin zeitlich sehr flexibel.
  • Flexibilität gehört zu meinen Stärken.
  • Ich kann flexibel auf Probleme reagieren.
  • Flexible Arbeitszeiten sind mir wichtig.

Social Planning

  • Ich bin da ganz flexibel.
  • Wann es dir passt, ich bin flexibel.
  • Wir können den Ort flexibel wählen.
  • Lass uns flexibel bleiben.

Technical/DIY

  • Das Rohr ist flexibel.
  • Wir brauchen einen flexiblen Schlauch.
  • Ist das Material flexibel genug?
  • Die Halterung ist flexibel einstellbar.

Education

  • Ein flexibler Lehrplan.
  • Wir müssen flexibel lernen.
  • Die Prüfungszeiten sind flexibel.
  • Flexible Lernmodule.

Travel

  • Ein flexibles Ticket.
  • Ich habe flexible Reisedaten.
  • Wir sind bei der Unterkunft flexibel.
  • Flexible Stornierungsbedingungen.

对话开场白

"Wie flexibel bist du in deinem Job?"

"Findest du, dass die Menschen heute flexibler sein müssen als früher?"

"Bist du eher ein planerischer Mensch oder bist du lieber flexibel?"

"Was bedeutet 'Flexibilität' für dich im Alltag?"

"Sollten Schulen flexiblere Lehrpläne haben?"

日记主题

Beschreibe eine Situation, in der du besonders flexibel sein musstest.

Ist zu viel Flexibilität schlecht für die Stabilität einer Gesellschaft?

Wie hat sich deine Flexibilität durch das Deutschlernen verändert?

Schreibe über einen flexiblen Gegenstand in deiner Wohnung.

Warum ist 'Flexibilität' in modernen Jobanzeigen so wichtig?

常见问题

10 个问题

Yes, it follows adjective declension rules. Crucially, the 'e' in the root is dropped: 'flexible' (not flexibele).

Yes, you can, but 'gelenkig' or 'beweglich' are more common for physical flexibility in sports.

Yes, it is very common and often used as a criticism of people who are stubborn or systems that are too bureaucratic.

Usually 'in' (in), 'bei' (regarding), or 'in Bezug auf' (with regard to). Example: 'Flexibel in der Planung'.

It is neutral. It works in both a business email and a chat with friends.

It is always a sharp 'ks' sound, like in 'box'.

The noun is 'die Flexibilität' (feminine).

No, but it can mean 'negotiable' in the context of prices ('ein flexibler Preis').

It's usually introduced at A2 because of the declension rules, but the meaning is clear at A1.

The most common opposites are 'unflexibel' and 'starr'.

自我测试 200 个问题

writing

Write a sentence about your work schedule using 'flexibel'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'I need a flexible solution.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Describe a person who is flexible in German.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a short email asking for flexible working hours.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Compare two systems using 'flexibler'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Explain why flexibility is important in a job.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'We are flexible regarding the price.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use 'Flexibilität' in a formal sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a sentence using 'unflexibel'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'Flexible materials are often durable.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a dialogue about meeting a friend, using 'flexibel'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use 'anpassungsfähig' in a sentence.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Describe a flexible object.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'A flexible mind stays young.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use the superlative 'am flexibelsten'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write about the benefits of 'Gleitzeit'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Translate: 'The rules are not flexible.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Use 'flexibel' as an adverb.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Describe your weekend plans (or lack thereof) using 'flexibel'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
writing

Write a sentence with 'trotz' and 'flexibel'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I am flexible today.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Ask: 'Are you flexible on the weekend?'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'We have flexible working hours.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I am flexible with the time.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'We need a flexible solution.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Pronounce correctly: 'Flexibilität'.

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'He is a flexible employee.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'Stay flexible!'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'The material is very flexible.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I can react flexibly.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'That is a flexible concept.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'Are there flexible options?'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I am more flexible than you.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'It depends on the flexible planning.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'Flexibility is important to me.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'He is not flexible at all.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'We are looking for flexible solutions.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'I am flexible in my thinking.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'Is the appointment flexible?'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
speaking

Say: 'We need to be flexible.'

Read this aloud:

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and write: 'Ich bin flexibel.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and write: 'Flexible Zeiten.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and write: 'Ein flexibler Plan.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and write: 'Wir brauchen Flexibilität.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and write: 'Sei flexibel.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and write: 'Eine flexible Lösung.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and write: 'Er arbeitet flexibel.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and write: 'Das ist flexibler.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and write: 'Am flexibelsten.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and write: 'Dank flexibler Arbeit.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and write: 'Ganz flexibel.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and write: 'Nicht flexibel.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and write: 'Flexible Modelle.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and write: 'Ein flexibles System.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
listening

Listen and write: 'Bleiben Sie flexibel.'

正确! 不太对。 正确答案:
正确! 不太对。 正确答案:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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