durable
/ˈdjʊərəbl/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈdʊrəbl/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈdu̇r-ə-bəl also ˈdyu̇r-/ (ame, mw)
durable — adjective
- durablepositive
- more durablecomparative
- most durablesuperlative
1. Something that is durable stays in good condition even after being used many tim
Something that is durable stays in good condition even after being used many times or over a long period — it does not break, tear, or wear out easily.
Saira bought a durable backpack that has lasted through four years of hiking trips, and it still looks almost new.
collocation: durable backpack / durable material / durable goods
The kitchen uses durable ceramic tiles that resist scratches and stains from daily cooking.
Adina prefers cotton sheets because they are more durable than most synthetic fabrics.
A good pair of leather boots can be extremely durable, often lasting for more than ten years with proper care.
Builders chose a durable plastic for the outdoor furniture so it would not crack in the sun or rain.
- long-lasting
more conversational; emphasises time rather than strength
- sturdy
focuses on physical strength and solid build
- tough
more informal; suggests resistance to damage or rough use
- heavy-duty
used for items built for very hard or frequent use
文法句型
durable + noun
be durable
用法筆記
Used mainly for physical objects (tools, clothing, buildings, materials). For abstract concepts like relationships or agreements, see sense 2.
常見錯誤
2. Something that is durable continues to exist or stays effective over many years
Something that is durable continues to exist or stays effective over many years — for example, a peace agreement, a close relationship, a practical solution, or a strong reputation.
The two countries signed a durable peace treaty that has held for over thirty years without conflict.
collocation: durable peace / durable solution
Niran and Layla have built a durable friendship based on trust and shared interests that has lasted since childhood.
The company enjoyed a durable reputation for quality, which helped it survive several economic downturns.
A durable democracy depends on fair elections and a free press that hold leaders accountable.
The business partners wanted a durable agreement that would protect both sides for many years to come.
- short-lived
lasting only a brief time
- temporary
intended or expected to last only for a limited period
文法句型
durable + noun (abstract)
用法筆記
More formal than sense 1. Frequently used in political, legal, and business contexts. Subject is typically an abstract noun (peace, friendship, reputation, democracy, agreement).
常見錯誤
3. A durable person can keep working, exercising, or performing over extended perio
A durable person can keep working, exercising, or performing over extended periods without feeling worn out, sore, or hurt.
Andrés is a durable runner who can complete marathons even in hot weather without slowing down.
domain: sports (durable athlete / durable runner)
The coach looks for durable players who can maintain their energy through the entire ninety-minute match.
Iris proved she was durable by working double shifts at the hospital without ever calling in sick.
A durable athlete recovers quickly between games and rarely suffers from repeated injuries.
The research team needed a durable fieldworker who could carry heavy equipment through rough terrain for hours.
文法句型
be durable (of a person)
用法筆記
This sense applies to people, not objects. Common in sports and physically demanding occupations. Do not confuse with sense 1 (physical objects) or sense 2 (abstract concepts).