What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
writeable
Example
The USB drive is writeable, so you can save your files on it. [writeable: adjective]
Example
This CD-R is not writeable, so you cannot add any more data to it. [writeable: adjective]
editable
Example
The document is editable, so you can make changes to it as needed. [editable: adjective]
Example
This photo is not editable, so you cannot modify it in any way. [editable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Editable is a more commonly used term than writeable in everyday language. This is because editable has a broader scope and is more applicable to a wider range of contexts, such as document creation and editing. Writeable, on the other hand, is a more limited term and is typically used in the context of data backup or transfer.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between writeable and editable?
Both writeable and editable are technical terms and are therefore more formal in nature. However, editable has a more user-friendly connotation and is therefore more versatile in terms of formality, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.