adjective

affable

/ˈæfəbl̩/ · say it: AF·uh·bul

friendly and easy to talk to

In Personality & Character

In more detail

1. (adjective) friendly, pleasant, and easy to talk to

2. (adjective) willing to listen and discuss things in a relaxed way

Examples

1. The new teacher has an affable manner that makes students feel comfortable.
2. The manager's affable approach to meetings encourages everyone to share their ideas.

How to use affable

Affable describes someone who is warm and approachable, often emphasizing their ease in social interaction and willingness to engage with others conversationally. It carries a more refined, somewhat formal tone than 'friendly' and suggests a gracious or good-natured quality, particularly in interpersonal dynamics.

Common phrases

affable manner
affable fellow
affable disposition
affable smile
affable demeanor
appear affable

Synonyms

friendly · pleasant · personable · amiable · genial

Opposites

unfriendly · hostile · aloof

Word family

affably (adverb) · affability (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse affable with able, or overlook that it specifically emphasizes the emotional warmth and approachability of a person rather than just their competence or capability.

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