Meaning 1
Fit to perform its intended function in the present situation.
Reach for it when Confirming practical function despite possible wear or imperfection.
Volunteers salvaged enough usable timber to rebuild the garden beds.
Meaning 2
Easy enough for intended people to operate successfully.
Reach for it when Assessing whether a design or service supports real users in completing tasks.
After the labels changed, the control panel became usable in low light.
| Meaning 1 | Meaning 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| everyday |
| |
| warm | ||
| professional |
| |
| formal |
everyday
Fits when a plan or tool can succeed in practice
Not when does not imply comfort or durability
professional
Fits when the item performs its basic job
Not when may still be frustrating or unsafe to use
formal
serviceable
Fits when condition is adequate despite wear
Not when muted praise where high quality matters
warm
Fits when operation feels clear and welcoming
Not when stronger than the minimum implied by usable
professional
Fits when people with relevant disabilities can use it
Not when a specific inclusion claim needs evidence
professional
Fits when people can infer operation with little instruction
Not when familiarity may explain success instead
still usable
The rain-soaked maps were still usable after careful drying.
usable condition
Three donated laptops arrived in usable condition.
readily usable
Plain examples made the guidance readily usable by volunteers.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Vealhurl, Southern England accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 Updated
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