Definition of Mutable
Quick Meaning of Mutable
Able to be changed; liable to change; not fixed or permanent; variable and changeable.
Detailed Definition of Mutable
Capable of being changed or altered; subject to change; variable and inconstant in nature or characteristics; not fixed or permanent.
How to Pronounce Mutable
Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).
Tip: MYOO-tuh-bul. Stress the first syllable (MYOO). Three syllables: MYOO-tuh-bul. The initial 'mu' is pronounced like 'myoo' in 'mute'.
Watch out: Learners sometimes stress the second syllable (mu-TA-ble) or mispronounce the initial vowel. Correct: MYOO-tuh-bul.
Origin and Etymology of Mutable
From Latin 'mutabilis' (changeable), derived from 'mutare' (to change, to exchange). The root suggests alteration and transformation. Used in English since medieval times in philosophical and legal contexts to describe things not bound by permanent nature.
How to Use Mutable in a Sentence
Each example shows “mutable” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
-
“Medieval philosophers debated whether the mutable world of change and decay could point toward immutable divine truth.”
-
“The contract's mutable terms allowed for renegotiation every five years as circumstances evolved.”
-
“Her mutable sense of self shifted across different social contexts, suggesting the fluidity of personal identity.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Mutable
Common Synonyms for Mutable
Smart Synonyms for Mutable — When to Use Each
- changeable
- Subject to change; broader and more common
- variable
- Varying and inconsistent; emphasizes range
- inconstant
- Not constant; unstable and unreliable in character
Antonyms of Mutable
Common Collocations with Mutable
These phrases pair with “mutable” in everyday English:
- mutable nature
- mutable terms
- mutable state
- mutable characteristics
- mutable identity
Common Mistakes When Using Mutable
Even fluent speakers slip up with “mutable”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The mutable truth remains eternally fixed and unchanging.
- ✓ Correct: Mutable truths shift with perspective and time, unlike eternal principles.
- Why: Mutable means changeable. 'Fixed and unchanging' contradicts this.
- ✗ Wrong: The mutable contract could never be altered or renegotiated.
- ✓ Correct: The mutable contract allowed periodic revision and modification.
- Why: Mutable means subject to change. 'Could never be altered' is contradictory.
- ✗ Wrong: His mutable personality remained absolutely constant throughout his life.
- ✓ Correct: His mutable personality shifted across different contexts and relationships.
- Why: Mutable implies variability. 'Absolutely constant' directly contradicts this.
Other Forms of Mutable
- Noun: mutability
- Adjective: mutable
- Adverb: mutably
Frequently Asked Questions About Mutable
What is the meaning of "Mutable"?
Able to be changed; liable to change; not fixed or permanent; variable and changeable.
How do you pronounce "Mutable"?
The IPA is /ˈmjuːtəbəl/. MYOO-tuh-bul. Stress the first syllable (MYOO). Three syllables: MYOO-tuh-bul. The initial 'mu' is pronounced like 'myoo' in 'mute'.
What part of speech is "Mutable"?
"Mutable" is an adjective at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Mutable"?
Common synonyms include changeable, variable, inconstant.
How do you use "Mutable" in a sentence?
For example: "Medieval philosophers debated whether the mutable world of change and decay could point toward immutable divine truth."