Rigid vs Flexible: Difference and Comparison

What is the difference between rigid and flexible (rigid vs flexible)?

The English dictionary defines the term “rigid” as stiff, rather than flexible- fixed rather than moving. The term “flexible” is defined as capable of being flexed or bent without breaking.

Rigid and flexible are common terms often used interchangeably, with each word having a different meaning from the other.

The term “rigid” is an adjective and an antonym of the word “flexible” Both terms are adjectives and the difference between them is that flexible of capable of being flexed, not stiff or brittle, and pliable, whereas rigid is fixed rather than moving.

As a noun, flexible refers to something that is flexible like items we use in our everyday lives.

Definition of Rigid

As we said earlier, the English dictionary defines the term “rigid” as stiff, rather than flexible- fixed, rather than moving. It refers to something that is stiff or inflexible- it’s the antonym of the word “flexible”.

Rigid refers to the inability to adapt or bend to various circumstances or situations. In science, rigid objects or structures are generally associated with being strong. Although rigid objects are strong and durable, they can also be brittle and prone to breaking under stress.

Rigidity can be seen in different contexts. In the context of human behaviour, it can be noticed in people who are resistant to accept change or new ideas.

While in the context of physical objects, it’s often seen in rigid materials like metal or glass. These are rigid materials that are not easily manipulated. And in the context of organizational structures, it’s seen in companies acting sluggishly towards adapting to new changes in the market or industry.

This also points out to companies that are resistant to accepting new technologies or business models.

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Etymology

According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the word “rigid” was derived from the Middle English word “rigidie” which in turn originated from the Latin word “rigidus” from “rigere” to be stiff.

The first time the word “rigid” was used was in the 15^th century.

Definition of Flexible

The term “flexible” is an adjective, meaning capable of being flexed or bent without breaking, able to be twisted, turned, or bowed without breaking.

Flexible also means capable or being adapted or moulded- the ability to adapt or change to different situations or circumstances. As a noun, flexible refers to something that is generally flexible.

Flexibility is a noun, which means the quality of being flexible or suppleness. This term can applied to different contexts such as human behaviour, physical objects, or organizational structure.

Flexibility can be seen in the context of physical objects like rubber and plastics. These flexible physical objects can be stretched or compressed under stress.

In the context of human behaviour, flexibility can be noticed in people open to new ideas and ready to accept new changes. Flexibility in this context refers to open-minded individuals keen to consider different perspectives.

In the context of organizational structure, flexibility can be noticed in companies willing to adapt to new ideas and changes.

Etymology

According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the term “flexible” is Middle English, which was borrowed from the Latin word “flexibilis” from “flexus” past participle of “flectere”, meaning “to cause to go in a different direction, bend, curve”.

The English word “flexible” was first known to be used in the 15^th century.

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Rigid vs Flexible: Difference between Rigid and Flexible

Rigid and flexible are common terms often used interchangeably, with each word having a different meaning from the other.

The English dictionary defines the term “rigid” as stiff, rather than flexible- fixed, rather than moving. It refers to something that is stiff or inflexible- it’s the antonym of the word “flexible”.

On the other hand, the word “flexible” is an adjective, meaning capable of being flexed or bent without breaking, able to be twisted, turned, or bowed without breaking.

Rigid refers to the inability to adapt or bend to various circumstances or situations, while flexible means capable or being adapted or moulded- the ability to adapt or change to different situations or circumstances.

Rigid vs Flexible: Difference between Rigid and Flexible Material

Here, we are looking at physical objects that can be rigid or flexible. Pipes are tubes often used in construction. They transport water, steam, or other fluids as used in plumbing and various applications.

Rigid Pipes

These types of pipes are sufficiently strong, both within the joints and the pipe wall. Rigid pipes can withstand loads weighing much in general.

The ability of a pipe to resist imposed loads is enhanced through embedment conditions.

Flexible Pipes

Unlike rigid pipes, flexible pipes often rely on the deformation of the pipe from imposed loads in order to mobilize the support of embedment materials on both sides of the tube.

Flexible pipes are defined by some standards as pipes that can deflect over 2% without a single crack. It’s said that just about a small portion of imposed loads are carried by the flexible pipes.

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Rigid vs Flexible: How to Use the Terms Rigid and Flexible in a Sentence

Both terms are adjectives and each word is an antonym of the other. Let’s look at a few examples of sentences using the term “rigid”.

Using the Term “Rigid” in a Sentence

• There is a misconception that rigid gender roles are irrelevant and harmful to today’s society.
• The company have a rigid policy which makes it challenging for their employees to take time off for personal reasons.
• The building’s rigid structure prevented the construction of additional floors or rooms.
• Michael was criticized for his rigid adherence to traditional methods.
• Jane’s rigid posture and facial expression were clear enough that she was not happy with the decision.
• Most people find it difficult to adapt to new situations because they have a rigid mindset.
• The rigid rules of the game is the main reason new players have yet to understand it.

Using the Term Flexible in Sentences

Let’s look at a few examples of sentences with the term “flexible”.

• Maria has a flexible approach to problem-solving that allows her to adapt to any new situation.
• The gymnast at the competition was quite flexible and was able to perform some incredible acrobatics.
• Dave opted for a part-time course with a flexible schedule.
• The company has flexible policies to meet the needs of its employees.
• Most people believe that Yoga is a great way for one to improve their flexibility.
• The new employee was excited when he learnt that the company offers a flexible work arrangement.
• The artist used a flexible brush to create an incredible painting for his client.

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Conclusion

Rigid and flexible are common terms often used interchangeably, with each word having a different meaning from the other. Both terms are adjectives and each word is an antonym of the other.

Rigid refers to the inability to adapt or bend to various circumstances or situations.

Flexibility is a noun, which means the quality of being flexible or suppleness. This term can applied to different contexts such as human behaviour, physical objects, or organizational structure.

Rigid and flexible according to Merriam Webster Dictionary are Middle English that was derived from Latin.

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References

• Merriam-Webster Dictionary: flexible
• Merriam-Webster Dictionary: rigid