versatile
VUR-suh-tyl
Versatile (adj) means Able to do many different things well, or adaptable to many different uses. Example: “A good chef needs to be versatile enough to cook any cuisine.”
adj
1
Able to do many different things well, or adaptable to many different uses.
"A good chef needs to be versatile enough to cook any cuisine."
"This tool is versatile — it works as a screwdriver, a wrench, and a bottle opener."
"She is a versatile actor who can play comedy as well as serious drama."
How to use versatile
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishFlexible and multi-skilled — able to adapt to different tasks or situations.
Common pairings
a versatile player
a versatile tool
versatile enough to
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like versatile.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Comparative
- more versatile
- Superlative
- most versatile
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A good chef needs to be _____ enough to cook any cuisine.
Etymology
From Latin versatilis, "turning easily", from versare, "to turn or change" — the same root family as "vertigo" and "convert".
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for versatile
See all rhymes for versatile →Frequently asked questions
What does “versatile” mean?
The word “versatile” means able to do many different things well, or adaptable to many different uses. In plain terms, flexible and multi-skilled — able to adapt to different tasks or situations.
How do you pronounce “versatile”?
“Versatile” is pronounced VUR-suh-tyl (/ˈvɝ.sə.təl/ in IPA).
How do you use “versatile” in a sentence?
Here is “versatile” used in a sentence: “A good chef needs to be versatile enough to cook any cuisine.”
What part of speech is “versatile”?
“Versatile” is an adjective.
Where does the word “versatile” come from?
The word “versatile” comes from Latin. From Latin versatilis, "turning easily", from versare, "to turn or change" — the same root family as "vertigo" and "convert".
Is “versatile” a common word?
“Versatile” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
What is the difference between versatile and flexible?
Versatile describes being able to do many different things well or being adaptable to many different uses, often emphasizing a range of skills or functions. Flexible more often emphasizes willingness or ability to change or adjust, so a versatile actor can play many roles, while a flexible schedule can be adjusted easily.
What does it mean to call a person versatile?
Calling someone versatile means they are able to do many different things well, such as an athlete who excels in multiple positions or an employee who handles varied tasks competently.
Can an object be described as versatile?
Yes, versatile applies to objects and tools as well as people, describing something adaptable to many different uses, such as a versatile kitchen appliance that performs several functions.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include versatile:
