Passable

/ˈpæsəbl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Able to be passed, crossed, or traversed; adequate but not exceptional.
The road was in passable condition despite the heavy rain.
Satisfactory but not outstanding; adequate.
Though the meal was passable, it didn't quite live up to the restaurant's reputation.
Good enough for a particular purpose.
Her performance was passable, sufficient to get her through the audition.
Capable of being accepted or tolerated.
He gave a passable excuse for being late to the meeting.

Etymology

From the verb pass + able, meaning able to be passed.

Common Phrases and Expressions

passable performance
A performance that is good enough but not outstanding.
passable conditions
Conditions that are adequate or sufficient for a particular purpose.
passable grades
Grades that are just high enough to meet the minimum requirement.

Related Words

pass
To move or go past something; to succeed in an examination.
passage
A way through which one can pass, or a section of writing.
passive
Not actively participating, but receiving or allowing what happens.

Slang Meanings

Just okay, not great.
The movie was passable; I wouldn't watch it again.
Mediocre quality.
Her jokes are passable, but they rarely make me laugh.