Words / B2

k-uh-m-PAT-uh-bl/kəmˈpætəbl/

Compatible means able to exist or work together: compatible with the old printer, compatible software. Match and work with are everyday; incompatible is the opposite. Compatibility is the noun. In speech, it works with is enough. The pattern is compatible with, not compatible to. Do not use it only for people unless you mean they can live or work together without constant conflict — and even then, get on is more natural.

Meaning

Able to exist or work together without conflict (compatible with).

Examples

• “The new software is compatible with older laptops.”
• “Check that the charger is compatible with this phone before you buy it.”
• “The two databases were not compatible, so staff typed the same names twice.”

Good to know

compatible with (not “to”). Everyday: it works with. Opposite: incompatible. Noun: compatibility. People: usually get on.

New