flexible
adjectiveCEFR B2
What does “flexible” mean in English?
flexible — capable of adapting to changed circumstances; also: easily bent
flexible — capable of adapting to changed circumstances; also: easily bent (horario flexible, normativa flexible)
Example sentences
El modelo de trabajo híbrido requiere una gestión del tiempo flexible y herramientas digitales que faciliten la colaboración remota.
The hybrid work model requires flexible time management and digital tools that facilitate remote collaboration.
Las negociaciones avanzaron porque ambas partes mostraron una postura flexible en los puntos menos esenciales del acuerdo.
Negotiations progressed because both sides showed a flexible stance on the less essential points of the agreement.
How to use it
Flexible means 'flexible' — able to bend without breaking; also fig. adaptable to circumstances. Common collocations: horario flexible, normativa flexible, enfoque flexible, postura flexible. Ser/estar: ser for inherent quality; estar for current state ('el plazo está flexible esta semana'). Collocations mark it as a positive quality in workplace contexts.
Common mistake
Flexible ≠ débil: flexible implies productive adaptability; débil implies lack of strength or conviction. A negotiator who is flexible finds workable compromises; a weak negotiator capitulates. The difference is intentionality.