What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
malleable
Example
Gold is a malleable metal that can be hammered into thin sheets. [malleable: adjective]
Example
The new employee was malleable and willing to learn new skills. [malleable: adjective]
Example
The political landscape is malleable and subject to change. [malleable: adjective]
pliable
Example
The clay was pliable and easy to shape into different forms. [pliable: adjective]
Example
She was pliable and open to suggestions for improving her work. [pliable: adjective]
Example
The schedule was pliable enough to accommodate unexpected changes. [pliable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pliable is more commonly used than malleable in everyday language, as it has a broader range of applications and is more versatile. Malleable is more commonly used in scientific or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between malleable and pliable?
Malleable is generally considered more formal than pliable, which has a more casual connotation. However, both words can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the situation.