flexible schedule

/ˈflɛksɪbəl ˈʃɛdjuːl/

noun phrase★Intermediate

◆ What It Really Means

Not applicable (literal meaning).

¶ Literal Meaning

A timetable that can be adjusted.

Literal Breakdown

flexiblecapable of bending or adapting+schedulea list of planned activities

◇ Mental Image

A calendar with movable time blocks.

◈ When to Use

A manager explains to employees that they can start between 7 AM and 10 AM as long as they complete 40 hours weekly.

◉ Cultural Note

Reflects modern workplace trends valuing autonomy and productivity over rigid hours.

💼Business

formal

A work schedule that allows employees to adjust their hours within certain limits, often to accommodate personal needs or varying workloads.

The company offers a flexible schedule to help employees balance work and family responsibilities.

Many remote jobs provide flexible schedules to attract talent.

💡

Common in modern workplaces, especially in tech and creative industries.

Collocations

flexible working hoursA schedule with adjustable start and end timesflexible schedule policyCompany rules governing flexible work arrangements

work-life balancephrase

Equilibrium between professional and personal time

remote workphrase

Working from a location outside the office

When requesting a flexible schedule, propose specific hours or outcomes to demonstrate reliability.

Always define boundaries (e.g., core hours) to avoid misunderstandings.

From 'flexible' (adaptable) + 'schedule' (time plan). Popularized in the 20th century with the rise of remote work.

Often used in HR and management contexts. May imply part-time or hybrid work options.

flexible

able to be easily modified

adjective

schedule

a plan for when things will happen

noun

English Dictionary