Meaning & Definition of word "Passable"

Passable

/ˈpæsəbl/

adjective:

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

Meaning: Just okay, not great.

Example Sentence: The movie was passable; I wouldn't watch it again.

Meaning: Mediocre quality.

Example Sentence: Her jokes are passable, but they rarely make me laugh.