IELTS Speaking · Vocabulary

    viable

    adjectiveˈvaɪəblBand 8

    Last updated 2 September 2026

    In short

    “viable” is a Band 8 adjective that means capable of working successfully; feasible. Below you'll find its pronunciation, natural example sentences, synonyms and antonyms, and the collocations that help you use it accurately in the IELTS Speaking test.

    Meaning

    Capable of working successfully; feasible.

    Example sentences

    • The business is no longer commercially viable.
    • Solar power is a viable alternative to coal.

    Synonyms & antonyms

    Synonyms

    feasibleworkablepracticable

    Antonyms

    unviableimpractical

    Collocations & common phrases

    Collocations

    commercially viableviable optioneconomically viable

    Common phrases

    a viable alternative

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    Frequently asked questions

    What does “viable” mean?
    Capable of working successfully; feasible.
    How do you use “viable” in a sentence?
    For example: “The business is no longer commercially viable.”
    What are some synonyms for “viable”?
    Synonyms include feasible, workable, practicable.
    Is “viable” good vocabulary for IELTS Speaking?
    Yes. It is Band 8 vocabulary, and collocations such as commercially viable, viable option, economically viable help you use it naturally. Reaching for precise, less common words like this is exactly what lifts your Lexical Resource score.

    Next step

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