Flexible vs Some of them can be bent

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

Flexible

Top 2,000 (common)B2adjective

Some of them can be bent

Top 2,000 (common)
 FlexibleSome of them can be bent
Pronunciation🇬🇧 //ˈflɛksəbl//🇺🇸 //ˈflɛksəbl//🇬🇧 //sʌm əv ðɛm kæn bi bɛnt//🇺🇸 //sʌm əv ðɛm kən bi bɛnt//
MeaningAble to change or adapt easily.Some of them can be curved or shaped.
ExampleThe new work schedule is more flexible and allows for better work-life balance.Some of them can be bent easily, like these metal rods.
RegisterNeutralNeutral
How commonTop 2,000 (common)Top 2,000 (common)
CEFR levelB2-
Part of speechadjective
Collocationsflexible schedule, flexible approach, flexible materials, flexible termscan be bent, easily bent, bent into shape, bent objects, bent metal
Antonymsinflexible, rigid, stiff-
Common mistakesConfusing with 'flexibility' - remember 'flexible' is the adjective form., Using 'flexible' only for physical things - it can describe ideas and schedules too., Saying 'more flexible' is incorrect when comparing three or more; use 'flexibler' instead.Confused with 'bent on' which means determined, Omitting 'some' can change the meaning, Using 'bent' as a noun instead of an adjective
Usage notesUse 'flexible' to describe people, plans, or materials that can adapt easily. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts.Use this phrase to describe objects that are flexible or can be changed in shape. Avoid in formal writing.

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Some of them can be bent

Frequently asked questions: Flexible vs Some of them can be bent

What's the difference between Flexible and Some of them can be bent?

Flexible: Able to change or adapt easily. Some of them can be bent: Some of them can be curved or shaped.

Can you show an example of each?

Flexible: The new work schedule is more flexible and allows for better work-life balance. Some of them can be bent: Some of them can be bent easily, like these metal rods.

Can I use Flexible and Some of them can be bent interchangeably?

Not always. Flexible and Some of them can be bent are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.