Intangible Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🌀
intangible
[ɪnˈtæn.dʒə.bəl ]
Definitions
physical properties
Intangible refers to something that cannot be touched or physically measured. It often describes concepts, qualities, or assets that exist but are not material in nature.
Synonyms
ethereal, immaterial, incorporeal, ungraspable.
Examples of usage
- The intangible aspects of a company include its brand reputation.
- Her love for music is an intangible experience that cannot be defined.
- Happiness is often considered an intangible benefit of a good job.
business assets
Intangible assets are non-physical assets that add value to a business, such as intellectual property or goodwill. They are important for a company's potential growth and profitability.
Synonyms
goodwill, intellectual property, non-physical asset.
Examples of usage
- Patents are a type of intangible that can significantly contribute to a company's value.
- Many startups focus on building their intangible assets from the ground up.
- The company's intangible assets were evaluated during the merger.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- Philosophers often discuss intangibility in the context of consciousness, highlighting the idea that thoughts and feelings aren't physically definable.
- The concept of intangible assets has significant implications in accounting and economics, referring to things like brand value and intellectual property.
- Many believe that the most valuable experiences, such as joy or peace, are intangible yet profoundly influential in our lives.
Technology
- In the digital age, intangible goods like software and digital media have transformed traditional industries, providing value without a physical form.
- Intangible security threats, such as cyber-attacks, represent risks that cannot be easily seen or measured but can cause significant harm.
- The rise of virtual reality and augmented reality technology poses questions about the tangible versus intangible world, blurring the lines between what we can see and experience.
Cultural Insights
- Different cultures value intangibles in unique ways; for instance, some prioritize relationships and traditions over physical possessions.
- The intangible cultural heritage of a community encompasses practices, representations, expressions, and knowledge. Examples include folklore, rituals, and festivals.
- Art forms like music and dance embody intangible cultural assets that express identity and history, often resonating more than material objects.
Economics
- Intangible assets are increasingly recognized as crucial for companies, influencing market value and investment decisions.
- Intellectual property rights protect intangible assets, encouraging innovation while ensuring creators can benefit from their creations.
- The growing shift towards a knowledge-based economy emphasizes intangible resources, highlighting their role in driving growth and competitiveness.
Origin of 'intangible'
Main points about word origin
- The word finds its roots in the Latin word 'tangere' which means 'to touch.' The prefix 'in-' indicates negation.
- Intangible first appeared in English during the late 14th century, originally referring to non-physical entities.
- It has evolved over centuries to encompass abstract ideas as well as non-physical properties.
The term intangible originated from the Latin word 'intangibilis,' which combines 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'tangibilis,' meaning 'that may be touched' (from 'tangere,' meaning 'to touch'). This Latin root indicates that the concept has evolved to represent things that are essential but cannot be physically interacted with. The word has been used in English since the late 15th century, commonly in legal and financial contexts to discuss assets that, while not physically present, hold significant value and influence. The use of intangible has expanded over the centuries to encompass various abstract qualities and feelings, illustrating society's recognition of the importance of non-physical elements in both personal and economic realms.