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Knowable: meaning, definitions and examples

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knowable

 

[ ˈnoʊəbl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

capable of being known

The word 'knowable' refers to something that can be understood or learned. It suggests that information or facts exist that can be discovered or comprehended by someone. In philosophical contexts, it can relate to the limits of human understanding, implying that certain truths or realities are accessible to individuals. The use of 'knowable' often highlights the distinction between what is known and what is unknown, emphasizing the potential for knowledge to expand. In scientific discourse, it frequently pertains to concepts that can be tested and verified.

Synonyms

apparent, comprehensible, discernible, fathomable, understandable

Examples of usage

  • The answers to his questions are knowable.
  • Many aspects of the universe are knowable through research.
  • Philosophers debate the knowable versus the unknowable.
  • The process makes complex ideas more knowable.
  • The knowable facts suggest a different conclusion.

Translations

Translations of the word "knowable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 conhecível

🇮🇳 जानने योग्य

🇩🇪 erkennbar

🇮🇩 dapat diketahui

🇺🇦 пізнаваний

🇵🇱 znany

🇯🇵 知ることができる

🇫🇷 connaissable

🇪🇸 conocible

🇹🇷 bilinebilir

🇰🇷 알 수 있는

🇸🇦 يمكن معرفته

🇨🇿 znatelný

🇸🇰 poznateľný

🇨🇳 可知的

🇸🇮 poznaven

🇮🇸 þekjanlegur

🇰🇿 білуге болады

🇬🇪 გაგება

🇦🇿 bilmək mümkün

🇲🇽 conocible

Etymology

The term 'knowable' is derived from the verb 'know', which comes from the Old English 'cnāwan', meaning to perceive or recognize. This verb has roots in Proto-Germanic *knēwō, linking it to various similar words in other Germanic languages. The suffix '-able' is of Middle English origin, derived from the Old French '-able' meaning 'capable of'. It has been used to form adjectives indicating the ability or capacity of the root word. The combination of these elements into 'knowable' first appeared in the English language around the late 16th century, reflecting the growing interest in epistemology and the nature of knowledge during the Renaissance. As the philosophical inquiries deepened, the word evolved to encompass broader contexts, including scientific inquiry and metaphysics.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,881, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.