stable

[ˈsteɪbl]

stable Definition

  • 1not likely to change or fail
  • 2firmly established
  • 3able to remain upright and not fall over
  • 4a building in which horses are kept

Using stable: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "stable" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The economy is finally stable after years of recession.

  • Example

    She has a stable job with a good salary.

  • Example

    The table is stable on the uneven ground.

  • Example

    The horses are kept in the stable.

stable Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for stable

Idioms Using stable

  • taking action too late to prevent something bad from happening

    Example

    He installed a security system after his house was burglarized, but it was a case of a stable door after the horse has bolted.

  • to do things in the wrong order

    Example

    You need to finish your homework before you can watch TV; don't put the cart before the horse.

  • to wait and be patient

    Example

    Hold your horses, we're not ready to start yet.

Phrases with stable

  • stable condition

    a medical condition that is not getting worse or improving

    Example

    The patient is in stable condition and is expected to recover.

  • a romantic relationship that is steady and not likely to change

    Example

    They have been together for five years and have a stable relationship.

  • a government that is firmly established and not likely to collapse

    Example

    The country needs a stable government to address its problems.

Origins of stable

from Old French 'estable', from Latin 'stabulum', meaning 'a standing place'

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Summary: stable in Brief

The term 'stable' [ˈsteɪbl] refers to something that is not likely to change or fail, such as a steady job or a firm government. It can also mean something that is able to remain upright and not fall over, like a table or a building for horses. Phrases like 'stable condition' and 'stable relationship' denote a state of steadiness, while idioms like 'put the cart before the horse' and 'hold your horses' refer to doing things in the right order and being patient.

How do native speakers use this expression?