The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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acceptable

adjective

/ækˈsɛp tə bəl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of acceptable

Meeting the required standards, criteria, or expectations.
"After careful consideration, the committee reached an acceptable solution."

Detailed meaning of acceptable

When something is deemed acceptable, it is considered satisfactory, adequate, or suitable for a particular purpose or situation. It implies that the item or action in question is permissible or agreeable, often in accordance with established norms, guidelines, or rules. Acceptable indicates that something is deemed appropriate or fitting, indicating a level of approval or compliance with the desired or expected outcome. It suggests that the item or action in question is within the bounds of what is considered reasonable or permissible, without being exceptional or extraordinary. Acceptable can also imply a level of tolerance or willingness to accommodate or compromise, acknowledging that while it may not be perfect or ideal, it is deemed satisfactory or sufficient under the given circumstances.

Example sentences containing acceptable

1. Her performance at the interview was quite acceptable.
2. The quality of the product is barely acceptable.
3. Honesty is an acceptable policy in any situation.
4. We must find an acceptable solution to the problem.
5. The team's performance was marginally acceptable.
6. His behavior at the meeting was barely acceptable.

History and etymology of acceptable

The adjective 'acceptable' has its etymological origins in Latin and Old French. It can be traced back to the Latin word 'acceptabilis,' which is derived from 'accipere,' a Latin verb meaning 'to receive' or 'to take.' In Latin, 'acceptabilis' signified something that could be received or welcomed, indicating a favorable disposition towards it. As Latin evolved into Old French, the term 'acceptable' emerged with a similar meaning of meeting the required standards or criteria. When 'acceptable' was incorporated into the English language, it retained this sense of being in accordance with established standards or expectations, signifying something that is agreeable or satisfactory. The etymology of 'acceptable' underscores its historical connection to the concept of meeting certain criteria or standards, highlighting its role in describing something that is deemed suitable or pleasing.

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Further usage examples of acceptable

1. Their offer was within an acceptable range.
2. Meeting the deadline is the only acceptable outcome.
3. Her explanation was more than acceptable; it was perfect.
4. The project's progress is currently acceptable.
5. The restaurant's service was far from acceptable.
6. Adherence to safety protocols is always acceptable.
7. Mediocrity is not an acceptable standard here.
8. The results of the experiment were barely acceptable.
9. Cooperation among team members is essential for an acceptable outcome.
10. The conditions of the contract are acceptable to both parties.
11. He did his best to provide an acceptable answer.
12. Your performance needs to improve to be considered acceptable.
13. Meeting customer expectations is our acceptable benchmark.
14. Their behavior was unacceptable, not acceptable at all.
15. The quality of the product was deemed acceptable by the customer.
16. His behavior at the meeting was not acceptable and raised concerns.
17. The candidate's qualifications were found to be acceptable for the position.
18. The restaurant received an acceptable rating from the health inspector.
19. We need to ensure that the project meets acceptable safety standards.
20. The deadline extension was seen as an acceptable compromise by both parties.
21. The teacher set clear guidelines for acceptable behavior in the classroom.
22. The repair work on the car was done to an acceptable standard.
23. The proposal received mixed reviews, with some finding it acceptable and others disagreeing.
24. The dress code for the event specified acceptable attire.
25. The company's financial performance for the quarter was deemed acceptable by investors.