Imperceptibility: meaning, definitions and examples

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imperceptibility

 

[ ˌɪmpərˈsɛpʃəˌbɪlɪti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

state of being

Imperceptibility refers to the quality or condition of being impossible to perceive or detect. This concept often applies to subtle changes, effects, or characteristics that are so minute that they go unnoticed by the senses. In various fields, such as psychology or physics, it can denote phenomena that are too small or gradual to be observed directly. The term suggests a level of subtlety that challenges human awareness and comprehension.

Synonyms

imperceptiveness, insubstantiality, intangible.

Examples of usage

  • The imperceptibility of the changes made it difficult to notice the improvement.
  • Some sounds exist at a level of imperceptibility for human ears.
  • Artists often strive for imperceptibility in their brush strokes, achieving a seamless effect.
  • The imperceptibility of her emotions masked her true feelings.

Translations

Translations of the word "imperceptibility" in other languages:

🇵🇹 imperceptibilidade

🇮🇳 अव्यक्तता

🇩🇪 Unmerklichkeit

🇮🇩 ketidakterlihatan

🇺🇦 невідчутність

🇵🇱 imperceptybilność

🇯🇵 知覚されないこと

🇫🇷 imperceptibilité

🇪🇸 imperceptibilidad

🇹🇷 algılanamazlık

🇰🇷 인지 불가능성

🇸🇦 عدم الإدراك

🇨🇿 nepostřehnutelnost

🇸🇰 nepostrehnuteľnosť

🇨🇳 不可察觉性

🇸🇮 neopaznost

🇮🇸 ógreinileiki

🇰🇿 сезілмейтіндік

🇬🇪 უპირველეს ყოვლისა

🇦🇿 hiss edilməzlik

🇲🇽 imperceptibilidad

Etymology

The term 'imperceptibility' is derived from the Latin root 'imperceptibilis,' which combines the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not,' and 'perceptibilis,' meaning 'perceptible' or 'able to be perceived.' The word was first introduced into the English language in the late 17th century, establishing its use in philosophical discussions regarding observation and perception. Its early applications revolved around discussions of sensory experiences and the limits of human understanding. Over time, imperceptibility gained traction in various academic disciplines, including art, literature, and science, as scholars explored the ideas of nuance and subtlety. The contemporary usage of the term emphasizes an increasingly complex understanding of perception and awareness, framing it as a multifaceted concept that pertains not only to sensory experiences but also to emotional and psychological states.