Identifiable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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identifiable

[aษชหˆdษ›ntษชfaษชษ™bl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in a group

Able to be recognized, distinguished, or identified.

Synonyms

discernible, distinguishable, recognizable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
identifiable

Use when something can be identified or recognized, often based on specific characteristics or features. It implies that there is enough information to determine what it is.

  • The suspect was easily identifiable because of his unique tattoo
  • The pattern on the fabric is identifiable as a traditional design
recognizable

Best used when something is familiar or can be easily recognized by most people. It suggests a level of common knowledge or familiarity.

  • The actor's face is recognizable from his many famous movie roles
  • The melody was instantly recognizable even to those who hadn't heard it before
distinguishable

Use when something can be differentiated from other similar things. It is often used in a context where multiple similar items need to be compared or contrasted.

  • The twins are easily distinguishable by their different hairstyles
  • The bird's call is distinguishable from other birds in the forest
discernible

Suitable when something can be perceived or noticed, especially when it may be difficult to see, hear, or understand. It often implies a level of effort or skill required to detect it.

  • His accent was barely discernible over the phone
  • The differences in quality between the two products were discernible only to an expert

Examples of usage

  • The suspect was easily identifiable in the crowd due to his distinctive red hat.
  • The logo on the product makes it easily identifiable as a well-known brand.
Context #2 | Adjective

individual

Capable of being recognized as the same individual under changing conditions of stimulation.

Synonyms

distinctive, recognizable, unique.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
identifiable

Used when something can be recognized based on its characteristics or features.

  • The suspect was easily identifiable by his prominent scar.
  • The painting was identifiable as a Picasso because of the unique brushwork.
distinctive

Used when something has a clear and specific characteristic that sets it apart from others.

  • Her voice has a distinctive tone that makes her an excellent singer.
  • The architecture of the building is very distinctive and easily recognizable.
recognizable

Used when something is familiar and can be easily known or identified.

  • The skyline of New York City is recognizable even to people who have never visited.
  • He wore a hat that made him easily recognizable in the crowd.
unique

Used when something is one of a kind and there is nothing else exactly like it.

  • Her unique sense of style makes her stand out among others.
  • This artifact is unique; there are no other pieces like it in the museum.

Examples of usage

  • The unique birthmark on her wrist made her easily identifiable even after years of not seeing her.
  • His voice was so identifiable that even on the phone, she knew it was him.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • In psychology, identifiable traits help us categorize people and objects, making it easier to understand our environment.
  • Studies show that humans are wired to recognize familiar patterns, aiding in the identification process.
  • Cognitive psychology suggests that identifiable cues, like colors or shapes, enhance memory retention.

Technology

  • In computer science, identifiable data allows systems to sort and manage information effectively.
  • Facial recognition technology relies on identifiable features to distinguish between individuals.
  • Online security systems use identifiable information, like usernames or fingerprints, to verify users.

Law

  • In legal contexts, an identifiable victim is necessary for many types of lawsuits; it helps establish the impact of the offense.
  • Identifiable evidence is crucial for law enforcement to connect suspects to crimes.
  • Laws regarding identifiable information protect personal data to ensure privacy and security.

Art and Culture

  • Artists often create identifiable styles that make their work recognizable.
  • In literature, identifiable characters are crucial for developing a story's plot and theme.
  • Cultural symbols become identifiable through repetition and recognition within specific communities.

Origin of 'identifiable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'identificare', meaning 'to make identical'.
  • It was first used in English around the 19th century, gaining popularity in the context of identification.
  • Related forms include 'identity' and 'identify', showing its roots in recognizing or naming.

The word 'identifiable' originates from the verb 'identify', which comes from the late Middle English word 'identifien', influenced by French 'identifier'. The prefix 'id-' comes from Latin 'idem', meaning 'same', and the suffix '-able' indicates capability. The concept of being identifiable has been crucial in various fields like psychology, criminal investigation, and technology.


See also: identification, identifier, identifiers, identify, identifying, misidentify, unidentified.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,939 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.