“Acceptable” is an adjective that means satisfactory or able to be agreed to or approved. Here are some synonyms and their analyses:
1. Adequate
- Meaning: Sufficient for a particular purpose; good enough. For example, “The food at the cafeteria was adequate, not outstanding, but it filled our stomachs.”
- Usage difference: “Adequate” emphasizes the idea of being just enough to meet a certain standard or need. In comparison to “acceptable,” it focuses more on the functional aspect. Something that is acceptable might have a broader range of qualities that make it passable, while something that is adequate is more about fulfilling a specific requirement. For example, an adequate solution to a math problem might be the minimum correct way to solve it, but an acceptable behavior in a social setting could include a wide range of polite actions that are considered appropriate.
2. Permissible
- Meaning: Allowed or permitted according to a set of rules or standards. For example, “In this library, quiet conversation is permissible in the lounge area.”
- Usage difference: “Permissible” is more about conforming to regulations or permissions. In contrast to “acceptable,” it is more rule - based. Something can be acceptable in a social or moral sense, but permissible refers to whether it is allowed by a specific authority or set of guidelines. For example, a certain style of clothing might be acceptable in a casual workplace but not permissible in a more formal or religious institution.
3. Tolerable
- Meaning: Able to be endured or put up with; not too bad. For example, “The pain from the injury was tolerable after taking the medicine.”
- Usage difference: “Tolerable” emphasizes the ability to bear or tolerate something. In comparison to “acceptable,” it implies a sense of discomfort or difficulty that is still manageable. Something that is acceptable might be more positively regarded, while something that is tolerable is more about being able to handle a less - than - ideal situation. For example, a tolerable living condition might have some drawbacks but is still livable, whereas an acceptable living condition would generally meet a higher standard of comfort and desirability.
4. Satisfactory
- Meaning: Meeting one's expectations or requirements; good enough to be considered acceptable. For example, “The performance of the new employee was satisfactory during the probation period.”
- Usage difference: “Satisfactory” is very close in meaning to “acceptable” and often used interchangeably. However, “satisfactory” might place a bit more emphasis on meeting expectations. It gives the idea that something has fulfilled a certain level of criteria that one had in mind. In comparison to “acceptable,” it might feel a bit more objective and less about a general sense of approval. For example, a satisfactory grade on a test implies that the student has met the teacher's standards, while an acceptable behavior in a public place is more about fitting into the general norms of society.