Movable vs. Moveable — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 24, 2024
"Movable" and "moveable" are two spellings of the same word, with "movable" being the more common variant in American English, used to describe something that can be moved.
Difference Between Movable and Moveable
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Movable" refers to anything that is capable of being moved or relocated without difficulty. On the other hand, "moveable" is an alternate spelling of the same word, though less commonly used.
The spelling "movable" is preferred in American English, reflecting a streamlined approach in modern spelling practices. Whereas "moveable" is considered an older or more traditional form, still correct but less prevalent.
In legal and technical contexts, "movable" is often used to describe assets or property that can be moved from one place to another. On the other hand, "moveable" might appear in these same contexts, though its usage is increasingly rare.
Dictionary entries and style guides typically list "movable" as the primary spelling, indicating its dominance in contemporary usage. Conversely, "moveable" may be noted as a variant, ensuring users are aware of its validity.
When choosing which term to use, writers should consider the preference of their audience or the stylistic guidelines they are following. While "movable" aligns with modern American English conventions, "moveable" remains a viable alternative, especially in British English or in historical texts.
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Comparison Chart
Commonality
More common globally
Less common
Usage in American English
Preferred
Less preferred
Usage in British English
Less common
Occasionally used
Contextual Presence
Frequent in legal and technical texts
Less frequent but still valid
Stylistic Preference
Recommended by most modern style guides
Often listed as an alternate spelling
Compare with Definitions
Movable
Legally, referring to property that can be moved from one location to another.
Movable assets include cars and furniture.
Moveable
Possible to be transferred or conveyed.
The contract allows for the moveable items to be sold separately.
Movable
Transferable from one person to another.
Ownership of movable goods can be transferred through sale.
Moveable
Flexible in placement or arrangement.
The room features moveable partitions to accommodate different events.
Movable
Adjustable; able to be moved or adjusted in position or settings.
The telescope has a movable arm for better positioning.
Moveable
In a legal context, referring to assets not attached to real property.
Her estate included numerous valuable moveables.
Movable
Mobile; not static or stationary.
They designed a movable stage for the theater group.
Moveable
Designed to be mobile and easy to move.
The museum's new exhibit includes several large moveable displays.
Movable
Capable of being moved; not fixed.
The chairs are movable, allowing for different seating arrangements.
Moveable
Capable of being relocated or transferred from one place to another.
They own several moveable sculptures in their garden.
Movable
Capable of being moved
They stripped the town of all movable objects and fled
Moveable
Variant of movable.
Movable
(of property) of the nature of a chattel, as distinct from land or buildings
A man of sufficient movable property but with hardly any land
Moveable
Alternative spelling of movable
Movable
Property or possessions not including land or buildings
A tax of one shilling in the pound on movables
In many cases the movables are the facilities and stock-in-trade of a business
Moveable
Alternative spelling of movable
Movable
Possible to move
A movable stove.
A movable rock.
Moveable
Movable.
Movable
Varying in date from year to year
A movable holiday.
Moveable
Capable of being moved or conveyed from one place to another
Movable
(Law) Of or relating to personal property (that is, property that can be moved).
Movable
Something, especially a piece of furniture, that can be moved.
Movable
Movables(Law) Personal property.
Movable
Capable of being moved, lifted, carried, drawn, turned, or conveyed, or in any way made to change place or posture; not fixed or stationary
Movable
Changing from one time to another
This feast is movable - its date varies from year to year.
Movable
Something which is movable; an article of wares or goods; a commodity; a piece of property not fixed, or not a part of real estate; generally, in the plural, goods; wares; furniture.
Movable
Capable of being moved, lifted, carried, drawn, turned, or conveyed, or in any way made to change place or posture; susceptible of motion; not fixed or stationary; as, a movable steam engine.
Movable
Changing from one time to another; as, movable feasts, i. e., church festivals, the date of which varies from year to year.
Movable
An article of wares or goods; a commodity; a piece of property not fixed, or not a part of real estate; generally, in the plural, goods; wares; furniture.
Furnished with the most rich and princely movables.
Movable
Property not attached to the soil.
Movable
(of personal property as opposed to real estate) can be moved from place to place (especially carried by hand)
Movable
Capable of being moved or conveyed from one place to another
Common Curiosities
What is the historical origin of the word "movable"?
The word "movable" comes from the Middle English word "movable," derived from the Old French "mueable," which means capable of being moved.
How does the usage of "movable" or "moveable" differ in technical writing versus everyday language?
In technical writing, the terms are often used with specific legal or technical definitions, while in everyday language, they simply refer to anything that can be moved.
Which industries might frequently use the terms "movable" or "moveable"?
These terms are commonly used in legal, real estate, and logistics industries.
Does the spelling variation affect the meaning of contracts or legal documents?
No, the spelling variation does not affect the meaning in legal contexts; both terms are understood to refer to assets that are not fixed.
What are some common mistakes people make when using "movable" and "moveable"?
A common mistake is using "moveable" in contexts where "movable" is the preferred spelling according to the relevant style guide.
Is there a difference in pronunciation between "movable" and "moveable"?
No, both "movable" and "moveable" are pronounced the same way.
Are there any synonyms that can replace "movable" or "moveable" without changing the meaning?
Yes, synonyms include "portable," "mobile," "transferable," and "transportable."
Can "movable" or "moveable" refer to digital or intangible items?
Yes, in contexts like software development, "movable" or "moveable" can refer to elements or features that can be relocated or reconfigured within a digital environment.
How do style guides generally recommend writers handle the choice between "movable" and "moveable"?
Most style guides recommend using "movable" as the standard spelling in American English, while acknowledging "moveable" as an acceptable variant.
Is there a preferred term for use in academic writing?
"Movable" is generally preferred in American English academic writing, aligning with common style guidelines.
Does the choice between "movable" and "moveable" influence search engine optimization (SEO) for online content?
Yes, using the more commonly searched term, which is "movable," can potentially improve SEO in regions where this spelling is preferred.
Are there specific examples where "moveable" might still be seen more frequently?
"Moveable" may appear more frequently in British English contexts or in historical texts where traditional spellings are preserved.
How can one remember which spelling to use when writing for an American versus a British audience?
Remember that "movable" is favored in American English, which is also simpler and more streamlined, reflecting American spelling tendencies.
How do dictionaries typically list these words?
Dictionaries typically list "movable" as the main entry, with "moveable" noted as an alternative spelling.
What advice would you give to someone unsure about which term to use in their writing?
Consider the audience and the predominant spelling in relevant literature or style guides. For American English, "movable" is usually the safer choice.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
