可変(かへん)

かへん
noun
variable; adjustable; changeable
1. variable; adjustable; changeable
Capable of being changed or adjusted. Used primarily as a modifier in technical and product description contexts to indicate that something can be varied.
可変(かへん)速度(そくど)のモーター。
A variable-speed motor.
角度(かくど)が可変(かへん)のスタンドを使(つか)っている。
I'm using a stand with an adjustable angle.
この椅子(いす)は高(たか)さが可変(かへん)なので、子供(こども)から大人(おとな)まで使(つか)える。
This chair has adjustable height, so it can be used by both children and adults.

A technical modifier meaning "variable" or "adjustable." Most commonly appears before another noun to describe something that can be changed or modified. Contrasts with 固定(こてい) (fixed).

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 可変(かへん)速度(そくど): variable speed
  • 可変(かへん)抵抗(ていこう): variable resistor
  • 可変(かへん)長(ちょう): variable length
  • 可変(かへん)翼(つばさ): variable-geometry wing (swing wing)

SIMILAR WORDS:

  • 固定(こてい): fixed, stationary — the direct opposite; something that cannot be changed
  • 調節(ちょうせつ)可能(かのう): adjustable — a more explanatory way to say the same thing; more common in everyday speech
  • 変動(へんどう): fluctuation, variation — describes natural or market-driven changes rather than user-adjustable settings

ETYMOLOGY:
可(か) (possible) + 変(へん) (change) — "able to be changed."

general
Added 2026.4.1 2:14
21000/21087_kahen