What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ductile
Example
Gold is a ductile metal that can be drawn into thin wires. [ductile: adjective]
Example
The team showed a ductile response to the sudden change in project requirements. [ductile: adjective]
pliable
Example
The clay was pliable and easy to shape into different forms. [pliable: adjective]
Example
She had a pliable personality and was open to new ideas. [pliable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pliable is more commonly used than ductile in everyday language, as it can be applied to a wider range of materials and contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ductile and pliable?
Ductile is more commonly used in technical or scientific contexts, while pliable is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.