<p>Elastic properties of quaternary xAl₂O₃–(35-x)ZnO–10Li₂O–55B₂O₃ glasses (0.5 mol% ≤ x ≤ 4 mol%) were quantitatively analyzed and predicted to declare the role of Li₂O, ZnO, and Al₂O₃ oxides in the borate network. In order to rationalize mechanical response, the bond compression bulk modulus and Poisson’s ratio were evaluated as a function of composition by taking into account changes in the coordination of boron atoms. Moreover, the experimentally determined values of elastic moduli and Poisson’s ratio are compared with those predicted from Makishima-Mackenzie’s theory and Rocherulle et al. model. It is found that the introduction of Al⁺³ ions at the expense of Zn⁺² ions depolymerized the borate network through the creation of extra NBOs. The net result is an increase in the molar volume, average boron–boron separation, and atomic ring diameter and a decrease in the average cross-link density, fractal bond connectivity, number of bonds per unit volume, and packing density, which weakness the glass network in its resistance to mechanical deformation. The bond compression model provides a coherent quantitative linkage between macroscopic elastic properties and network connectivity/stretching force-constant parameters. In addition, the ratio of glass packing density to mean atomic volume is established as good factor in predicting elastic properties of the glass. Rocherulle et al. model is much better than Makishima and Mackenzie’ theory in predicting elastic moduli, particularly for shear and Young’s moduli. The discrepancy between predicted and experimental values of elastic moduli and Poisson’s ratio has been interpreted.</p>