Compatible vs. Comparable

These words look so much similar that may use them as synonyms. However, they are not synonym, they mean different things.

Let's learn about these words one by one:-

Compatible

Compatible means something able to be used together, able to exist or be used together without causing problems.

My roommate and I are very compatible.
I am not compatible with my wife.

Comparable

Comparable means something similar to somebody or something else and able to be compared.

It is used to say that two or more thing are very similar and can be compared to each other.

The risk it poses is comparable with smoking just one cigarette every year.
A comparable refrigerator today would cost a lot more than the one I bought 10 years ago.

What is the difference between compatible and comparable?

Compatible things fit together without problems. if things are compatible, they work well together.

If things, for example systems, ideas and beliefs, are compatible, they work well together or can exist together successfully.

This software is compatible with window OS.
They are a compatible couple because they share the same core values.

Comparable things are alike and can be judged together.

If two or more things are comparable, they are of the same kind or are in the same situation, and so they can reasonably be compared.

The two political crises are not comparable; one was far more severe
The salary of a head surgeon is not comparable to that of a new junior doctor.

Compatible describes things that can coexist or combine without problems, conflict, or undesirable reactions.

Comparable describes things that are similar in nature, quality, quantity, or significance, making them worthy of being compared.

In a nutshell

Use compatible when discussing function, harmony, and cooperation.

Use comparable when discussing similarity, equivalence, and the ability to make a comparison.

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