Intelligible: meaning, definitions and examples

Suitable for indicating that something can be understood, especially in speech or text.

• The instructions were intelligible to everyone

Fits well when expressing that something can be grasped, often used for everyday situations or emotions.

• Her nervousness before the test was understandable

Useful when indicating that something can be understood, often implying a complex subject made simple.

• The teacher made the complex topic comprehensible to the students

Appropriate in any situation where something is easy to see, hear, or understand.

• Her explanation of the problem was very clear

Best used when describing something logically ordered or makes sense. Often used in formal or academic contexts.

• His essay was coherent and well-structured

Ideal for describing something easily understood without need for detailed instruction, often used in the context of design or user experience.

• The new software has an intuitive interface

Use when you want to describe something that is easy to understand, especially speech or writing.

• Her lecture was intelligible to all the students in the room.
• The instructions were intelligible, even to those with little technical knowledge.

Often used to describe handwriting or text that is easy to read.

• Her handwriting was so legible that anyone could read it without effort.
• Please make sure your writing is legible on the application form.

Ideal when talking about the ability to understand something complex or detailed.

• The scientist made the complex theory comprehensible to the general audience.
• The legal document was written in a way that is not easily comprehensible.

Best suited for general use to describe something that is easy to see, hear, or understand.

• The directions to the campsite were clear and straightforward.
• Please speak clear so everyone can hear you.

Best used when you want to describe something stated clearly and in detail, leaving no room for confusion or doubt.

• The rules were explicit and left no room for interpretation.
• He gave explicit instructions on how to operate the machine.

Use when you want to emphasize that something is clear and cannot be interpreted in more than one way.

• The contract's terms were unambiguous, ensuring no misunderstandings.
• He provided an unambiguous answer to the question.