Definitions
- Describing something that is just good enough to be accepted or tolerated. - Referring to a level of quality that is satisfactory but not exceptional. - Talking about something that is adequate or sufficient, but not impressive or outstanding.
- Referring to something that is sufficient or satisfactory for a particular purpose or need. - Describing a level of quality that meets the minimum requirements or standards. - Talking about something that is enough or suitable, but not necessarily excellent or outstanding.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe something that is sufficient or satisfactory.
- 2Both words can be used to indicate a minimum level of quality or standard.
- 3Both words can be used to describe something that is not exceptional or outstanding.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Passable is more commonly used to describe something that is just good enough, while adequate is used to describe something that meets a specific requirement or need.
- 2Quality: Adequate implies a higher level of quality than passable, as it suggests that something is sufficient or suitable for its intended purpose.
- 3Connotation: Passable has a slightly negative connotation, suggesting that something is only barely acceptable, while adequate is more neutral and can be used in a positive or negative context.
- 4Scope: Adequate can be used to describe a wider range of things, including resources, facilities, and skills, while passable is more limited in its usage.
- 5Intensity: Passable suggests a lower level of intensity than adequate, as it implies that something is just barely acceptable, while adequate suggests that something is sufficient or satisfactory.
Remember this!
Passable and adequate are synonyms that both describe something that is sufficient or satisfactory. However, adequate implies a higher level of quality than passable, as it suggests that something is sufficient or suitable for its intended purpose. Passable has a slightly negative connotation, while adequate is more neutral and can be used in a wider range of contexts.