Detectable: meaning, definitions and examples

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detectable

 

[dɪˈtɛktəbəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in scientific research

Able to be identified or recognized by observation or analysis.

Synonyms

discernible, noticeable, observable, perceptible.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
detectable

Use this word when something can be discovered or identified using instruments or techniques.

  • The faint signal was barely detectable with their equipment.
  • The disease was detectable through a blood test.
observable

Choose this word when referring to something that can be seen or noticed, often through scientific observation or when looking closely.

  • There were observable trends in the data.
  • No observable damage was found on the exterior of the car.
discernible

Opt for this word when something can be made out or distinguished with some effort, often involving judgment or insight.

  • There was no discernible change in his attitude.
  • The differences between the two plans were barely discernible.
perceptible

Use this word when referring to something that can be noticed by the senses, often in a subtle manner.

  • There was a perceptible change in the atmosphere after he arrived.
  • The temperature drop was barely perceptible.
noticeable

This word is fitting when something is easily seen or standout to the senses without much effort.

  • Her absence was noticeable in the meeting.
  • The stain on his shirt was noticeable from a distance.

Examples of usage

  • It is important to ensure that the effects are detectable using this method.
  • The substance is detectable in the water samples.
Context #2 | Adjective

in security systems

Able to be discovered or identified by a security system or process.

Synonyms

identifiable, traceable, visible.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
detectable

Used when something can be discovered or noticed, especially with the use of special equipment or techniques.

  • The virus is only detectable under a microscope
  • The presence of chemicals in the water is detectable through testing
identifiable

Used when something can be recognized or distinguished based on certain characteristics.

  • The fingerprints were easily identifiable
  • Unique markings on the animal make it identifiable from a distance
traceable

Used when something can be followed or tracked, often through a sequence of steps or stages.

  • The origin of the phone call was traceable
  • Food products should be traceable from farm to table
visible

Used when something can be seen by the naked eye without any special tools.

  • The moon is visible from my window
  • Her emotions were clearly visible on her face

Examples of usage

  • The alarm will be triggered if any detectable movement is detected.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Latin, where 'detegere' means 'to uncover' or 'to reveal'.
  • The prefix 'de-' implies removal, and 'tect' comes from 'tegere', meaning 'to cover'.
  • The term has been in use since the early 19th century in the context of science and observation.

Science

  • In scientific studies, various detectors are used to find elements or particles that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye.
  • Medical imaging technologies like MRI or CT scans make tumors detectable before they can be felt or cause symptoms.
  • In environmental science, pollutants can be detectable in water or air samples using specific instruments.

Technology

  • In cybersecurity, detectable patterns help identify unusual activities that may indicate a cyber attack.
  • Detectable features in artificial intelligence allow systems to recognize faces, speech, or objects within images.
  • GPS technology has made it easier to detect and track movements of people or vehicles in real-time.

Psychology

  • Subtle emotional cues in body language can be detectable by observant individuals, helping to gauge feelings.
  • In therapy, certain patterns of thought and behavior become detectable over time, assisting in diagnosis and treatment.
  • Research shows that humans can detect slight changes in others’ moods often subconsciously.

Pop Culture

  • In detective novels and movies, clues that are detectable lead characters on solving mysteries.
  • Detectable talents are often highlighted in reality shows like singing competitions, where judges recognize hidden abilities.
  • Sci-fi films often showcase futuristic technology that detects alien life, sparking curiosity about what is out there.

Translations

Translations of the word "detectable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 detectável

🇮🇳 पता लगाने योग्य

🇩🇪 nachweisbar

🇮🇩 terdeteksi

🇺🇦 виявлений

🇵🇱 wykrywalny

🇯🇵 検出可能な

🇫🇷 détectable

🇪🇸 detectable

🇹🇷 tespit edilebilir

🇰🇷 감지할 수 있는

🇸🇦 قابل للاكتشاف

🇨🇿 zjistitelný

🇸🇰 zistiteľný

🇨🇳 可检测的

🇸🇮 zaznaven

🇮🇸 greinanlegur

🇰🇿 анықталатын

🇬🇪 აღმოჩენილი

🇦🇿 aşkarlanabilir

🇲🇽 detectable

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,984, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.