What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
acceptable
Example
Your performance was acceptable, but there is still room for improvement. [acceptable: adjective]
Example
The noise level in the library was barely acceptable. [acceptable: adjective]
Example
This behavior is not acceptable in our workplace. [acceptable: adjective]
satisfactory
Example
Your work on this project was satisfactory. [satisfactory: adjective]
Example
The quality of the product was satisfactory for its price. [satisfactory: adjective]
Example
I found the service at the restaurant to be quite satisfactory. [satisfactory: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Acceptable is more commonly used than satisfactory in everyday language. Acceptable is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while satisfactory is more specific and often used in professional or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between acceptable and satisfactory?
Satisfactory is generally considered more formal than acceptable. It is often used in professional or academic settings to describe the quality or performance of work or products.
