What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
docile
Example
The new puppy was very docile and quickly learned how to sit and stay. [docile: adjective]
Example
She had a docile personality and always followed her boss's orders without question. [docile: adjective]
malleable
Example
Gold is a malleable metal that can be shaped into various forms. [malleable: adjective]
Example
He was a malleable student who always followed the teacher's instructions without question. [malleable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Docile is more commonly used than malleable in everyday language, especially in the context of animal training or education. Malleable is more commonly used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between docile and malleable?
Both docile and malleable are relatively formal words, but malleable may be slightly more technical or specialized in its usage.
