Usable vs. Useable: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
"Usable" and "Useable" are variants of the same word, meaning capable of being used, with "usable" being the more commonly preferred spelling.
Key Differences
"Usable" is the more commonly accepted spelling in modern English, while "Useable" is an alternative but less common form.
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Dec 05, 2023
Both spellings denote something that is capable of being used or practical for use, and they are used interchangeably.
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Dec 05, 2023
"Usable" is more prevalent in American and British English, whereas "Useable," though understood, is less frequent.
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Dec 05, 2023
The usage of "useable" has decreased over time, with "usable" becoming the more standard spelling in contemporary usage.
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Dec 05, 2023
Most dictionaries list "usable" as the primary spelling, with "useable" noted as a variant.
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Dec 05, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Capable of being used; practical
Capable of being used; practical
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Regional Preference
Preferred in both American and British English
Less frequent but understood
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Historical Trend
Increasingly standard spelling
Less commonly used in modern English
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Usable and Useable Definitions
Usable
Capable of being used effectively.
The laptop is still usable despite its age.
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Useable
Good enough to be used; not defective.
The donated clothes are clean and useable.
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Usable
In a condition good enough for use.
The second-hand tools are still perfectly usable.
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Useable
Able to be used effectively.
The old phone is still useable for basic needs.
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Usable
Available for use; accessible.
The new software update made the app more usable.
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Useable
Suitable for a specific purpose.
This space is useable for our meeting.
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Usable
Practical or functional for a particular purpose.
The kitchen’s design is highly usable for cooks.
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Useable
Ready for use; available.
After repairs, the equipment is useable again.
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Usable
Fit or suitable for use.
The data collected from the survey is usable for our analysis.
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Useable
In a state that permits use.
The recovered files from the hard drive are useable.
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Useable
Fit or ready for use or service;
The toaster was still functional even after being dropped
The lawnmower is a bit rusty but still usable
An operational aircraft
The dishwasher is now in working order
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Useable
Convenient for use or disposal;
The house is available after July 1
2000 square feet of usable office space
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Usable
Fit or ready for use or service;
The toaster was still functional even after being dropped
The lawnmower is a bit rusty but still usable
An operational aircraft
The dishwasher is now in working order
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Oct 19, 2023
Usable
Convenient for use or disposal;
The house is available after July 1
2000 square feet of usable office space
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Oct 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Can "useable" be used in formal writing?
Yes, though "usable" is more standard.
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Dec 05, 2023
Is there a difference in pronunciation?
No, both are pronounced the same way.
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Dec 05, 2023
Do "usable" and "useable" have the same definition?
Yes, they both mean capable of being used.
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Dec 05, 2023
Is "useable" considered incorrect?
No, it's not incorrect, just less common.
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Has the usage of "useable" changed over time?
Yes, its usage has declined in favor of "usable."
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Give an example sentence with "usable."
"The smartphone's interface is highly usable."
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Can you provide a sentence using "useable"?
"The old computer, though slow, is still useable for basic tasks."
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Which variant is preferred in American English?
"Usable" is preferred in American English.
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Dec 05, 2023
Are "usable" and "useable" interchangeable?
Yes, they are interchangeable variants of the same word.
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Dec 05, 2023
Is "useable" considered informal or incorrect?
No, it is not considered informal or incorrect, just less common.
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Dec 05, 2023
Is "usable" an adjective?
Yes, it's an adjective used to describe the quality of something being easy to use.
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Dec 05, 2023
Are there contexts where one variant is preferred?
Generally, "usable" is preferred in most contexts.
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Dec 05, 2023
Are there any regional preferences for "useable"?
Some regions may prefer "usable," but both are used worldwide.
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How do dictionaries list these words?
Most list "usable" as the primary form, with "useable" as a variant.
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Dec 05, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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