Intelligibly: meaning, definitions and examples

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intelligibly

 

[ɪnˈtɛlɪdʒəbli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

spoken communication

In a way that is able to be easily understood and clear.

Synonyms

articulately, clearly, coherently, understandably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
intelligibly

Use when referring to speaking or writing in a way that is easy to understand.

  • She explained the complex theory intelligibly to everyone in the room.
  • The teacher spoke intelligibly, which helped the students grasp the concept quickly.
clearly

Best used when highlighting the clarity and absence of confusion in communication.

  • Please speak clearly so everyone can understand you.
  • She explained the instructions clearly, so there were no mistakes.
understandably

Used when discussing communication that is easily comprehensible to the audience.

  • The instructions were written understandably, making it easy to follow.
  • She explained the policy understandably, ensuring everyone knew what to expect.
coherently

Appropriate when emphasizing logical and orderly communication.

  • He presented his arguments coherently during the debate.
  • It is important to write coherently in your essay to convey your message effectively.
articulately

Suitable for situations where focus is on the eloquence and clarity of speech.

  • He answered the questions articulately during the interview.
  • The politician spoke articulately, winning the support of the audience.

Examples of usage

  • She explained the complex concept intelligibly.
  • The instructions were written intelligibly for all users.
  • The teacher spoke slowly and intelligibly so that all students could follow along.
Context #2 | Adverb

writing

In a clear and coherent manner, easy to comprehend.

Synonyms

clearly, concisely, perspicuously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
intelligibly

Used when emphasizing that something can be understood without difficulty; it is clear and coherent.

  • The professor explained the complex theory intelligibly, making it accessible to all students.
  • She spoke so intelligibly that even non-experts could grasp the concept.
clearly

Used to emphasize that something is expressed in a straightforward and unambiguous manner. Often used in everyday situations.

  • Please speak clearly so everyone can understand you.
  • The instructions are clearly written on the first page.
concisely

Used when the focus is on expressing something in a brief and to-the-point manner without unnecessary words.

  • The resume should be written concisely, highlighting key achievements.
  • She explained the rules concisely and everyone grasped them quickly.
perspicuously

Used in more formal or academic contexts to describe something that is expressed in a clear, precise, and easily understandable way.

  • The complex legal document was surprisingly written perspicuously.
  • His arguments were so perspicuously presented that there was little room for misunderstanding.

Examples of usage

  • The author presented the information intelligibly in the textbook.
  • The legal document was drafted intelligibly for the layperson to understand.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'intelligibilis', which means 'that can be understood'.
  • It is formed by combining 'intellect' and the suffix '-ibly', indicating a manner of doing something.
  • The root 'intellegere' in Latin means 'to understand', highlighting the connection between thought and clarity.

Communication

  • Clear communication is key in professions like teaching and nursing, where understanding can directly impact outcomes.
  • Using simpler words and clear structure in writing can significantly improve reader comprehension.
  • Studies show that messages presented visually alongside text are often understood more intelligibly.

Education

  • Teachers are trained to communicate intelligibly to ensure all students can grasp complex concepts.
  • The use of plain language in educational materials helps learners of all ages engage more fully with the content.
  • Interactive learning environments promote intelligible discussions, allowing students to clarify their understanding.

Psychology

  • People are more likely to remember information that is presented in a clear and coherent manner.
  • Cognitive load theory suggests that when information is presented intelligibly, it reduces mental clutter and enhances learning.
  • When speakers articulate their points clearly, it fosters trust and credibility among audiences.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and television, characters who communicate clearly often symbolize wisdom and authority.
  • Reality TV shows often emphasize clear communication as participants navigate misunderstandings.
  • Famous speeches in history that are known for their clarity often inspire movements and evoke strong emotions.

Translations

Translations of the word "intelligibly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inteligivelmente

🇮🇳 साफ़-साफ़

🇩🇪 verständlich

🇮🇩 dengan jelas

🇺🇦 зрозуміло

🇵🇱 zrozumiale

🇯🇵 わかりやすく

🇫🇷 intelligiblement

🇪🇸 inteligiblemente

🇹🇷 anlaşılır bir şekilde

🇰🇷 명확하게

🇸🇦 بوضوح

🇨🇿 srozumitelně

🇸🇰 zrozumiteľne

🇨🇳 清楚地

🇸🇮 razumljivo

🇮🇸 skiljanlega

🇰🇿 түсінікті

🇬🇪 გასაგებად

🇦🇿 anlaşılan şəkildə

🇲🇽 inteligiblemente

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,685, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.