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Definable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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definable

[dɪˈfaɪnəb(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in mathematical context

Capable of being defined or clearly described, especially in precise mathematical terms.

Synonyms

clearly defined, describable, precisely described.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
definable

Used to say something can be clearly explained or characterized.

  • The criteria for success in this project are definable and easy to understand
describable

Used when something can be put into words or explained, often in terms of personal experience or features.

  • The beauty of the mountain landscape was hardly describable
clearly defined

Used to describe something with no ambiguity or confusion, often in legal or technical settings.

  • The job responsibilities were clearly defined in the contract
precisely described

Used to indicate detailed and exact characterization, often in scientific or technical contexts.

  • The methodology was precisely described in the research paper

Examples of usage

  • The concept of a prime number is definable in mathematics.
  • In geometry, a circle is definable as the set of all points equidistant from a central point.
Context #2 | Adjective

in general context

Able to be stated or expressed in words.

Synonyms

articulable, expressible, verbalizable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
definable

Use when something can be clearly described or determined, often in a precise, technical, or analytical context.

  • The problem is definable within the given parameters
  • Is the concept of happiness truly definable?
expressible

Use when referring to the ability to communicate a thought, feeling, or idea in words, emphasizing the act of conveying something effectively.

  • His gratitude was barely expressible in words
  • The beauty of the landscape was hardly expressible
articulable

Use when something can be clearly spoken or explained, often highlighting the ability to convey a thought or idea through speech.

  • Her emotions were intense but not easily articulable
  • Complex theories are not always articulable in simple terms
verbalizable

Use when focusing on the capacity to put something into words, especially when discussing abstract or complex concepts.

  • Certain feelings are not easily verbalizable
  • The formula is complex but verbalizable with effort

Examples of usage

  • Her feelings towards him were not easily definable.
  • The beauty of the artwork was undefinable.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • In philosophy, defining concepts is crucial for discussions about what things really mean or represent.
  • The process of defining something can uncover deeper meanings and nuances about the topic.
  • Philosophers often debate whether abstract concepts, like love or beauty, are truly definable.

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, a definable set or number is one that can be precisely specified using clear criteria.
  • Many mathematical theories depend on the ability to create definitions to understand complex ideas.
  • The idea of definability helps mathematicians communicate precisely and avoid ambiguity.

Education

  • Teaching students the skill of defining terms is fundamental for clear communication and understanding.
  • In standardized testing, the ability to define terms accurately can impact scores and evaluations.
  • Definable terms in educational resources help students develop critical thinking by clarifying concepts.

Linguistics

  • In linguistics, the clarity of a definition can influence language development and communication effectiveness.
  • Ambiguity in definitions can lead to misunderstandings in language use among speakers.
  • Linguists study how different cultures define similar concepts differently, highlighting diversity in thought.

Origin of 'definable'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'definire,' which means 'to limit' or 'to determine.'
  • It entered English through Middle French, highlighting the evolution of language as it moved through cultures.
  • The suffix '-able' means capable of, so 'definable' means 'capable of being defined.'

The word 'definable' originated from the Latin word 'definire', which means 'to set bounds to'. It has been used in English since the early 15th century. The concept of being able to clearly define or describe something has been an important aspect in various fields, including mathematics, philosophy, and linguistics.

See also: defined, definite, definitive, indefinably, indefinite, redefine.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,350, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.