variable
Loading your saved state.
variable
Changeable, adaptable, or not fixed to a set value or a fixed form.
Die Arbeitszeiten in diesem Job sind variabel und können flexibel gestaltet werden.
The working hours in this job are variable and can be arranged flexibly.
'Variabel' (variable) belongs to the word family of 'variieren' (to vary/change) and 'die Variable' (a variable quantity). All of these words have their origin in the Latin word 'variare' (to change, to be different).
Die Kosten für das Projekt können je nach Materialpreis variieren.
The costs for the project can vary depending on the price of materials.
The adjective 'variabel' (variable) is often used to describe things that are not fixed. Typical combinations are: variable costs, variable working hours, a variable salary, or variable prices.
Viele Mitarbeiter wünschen sich variable Arbeitszeiten.
Many employees want variable working hours.
The ending '-abel' often means that something has an ability or that something can be done with it, similar to the German ending '-bar'. 'Variabel' (variable) therefore means 'variierbar' (variable/changeable) or 'fähig, sich zu verändern' (able to change).
Das Regalsystem ist sehr variabel und kann an jeden Raum angepasst werden.
The shelving system is very variable and can be adapted to any room.
firm / fixed
'fest' and 'variabel' are opposites when talking about rules, times, prices, or values. Here, 'fest' means that something is fixed and does not simply change. 'variabel' means that something can be changed or adjusted. A fixed appointment stays the same; a variable appointment can still be moved. 'variabel' often sounds more factual or technical and fits well in contexts involving planning, technology, work, or numbers.
Im neuen Job sind die Arbeitszeiten variabel.
In the new job, the working hours are variable.
Der Termin für die Prüfung ist jetzt fest.
The date for the exam is now fixed.