Observable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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observable

[əbˈzəːvəb(ə)l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in science

Able to be observed or perceived.

Synonyms

noticeable, perceptible, visible.

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Word Description / Examples
observable

Used in scientific or academic settings when something can be seen or measured.

  • The changes in the experiment were observable under the microscope
  • The stars were observable with a telescope
noticeable

Used to describe something that is easily seen or recognized, often in everyday situations.

  • There was a noticeable improvement in his health
  • Her new haircut was very noticeable
perceptible

Often used in formal or literary contexts to describe something that can be detected or felt, although it may be subtle.

  • There was a perceptible shift in the mood of the room
  • His discomfort was barely perceptible
visible

Used when talking about something that can be seen with the eyes, generally in a physical sense.

  • The mountains were clearly visible from the city
  • There was a visible crack in the wall

Examples of usage

  • The scientist conducted an experiment to test the observable effects of the new medication.
  • These changes in the environment are easily observable by anyone walking through the park.
Context #2 | Noun

in astronomy

A celestial object or event that can be observed using a telescope or other instruments.

Synonyms

astronomical event, celestial object, stellar phenomenon.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
observable

Used to describe something that can be seen or detected, especially in a scientific context.

  • The changes in the experiment are observable under a microscope.
  • The scientist noted the observable differences between the two species.
celestial object

Used to describe any natural object outside Earth's atmosphere, such as stars, planets, and moons.

  • The moon is the closest celestial object to Earth.
  • Astronomers discovered a new celestial object in the distant galaxy.
astronomical event

Refers to significant occurrences in space, such as eclipses, meteor showers, or planetary alignments, that are often watched and studied.

  • The lunar eclipse is an astronomical event admired by many astronomers and skywatchers.
  • A solar flare is a powerful astronomical event that can impact Earth's technology.
stellar phenomenon

Refers to extraordinary events or occurrences associated with stars, like supernovae or star formation processes.

  • A supernova is a spectacular stellar phenomenon that can outshine an entire galaxy.
  • The birth of new stars in a nebula is an interesting stellar phenomenon.

Examples of usage

  • The comet passing by Earth was a fascinating observable for astronomers to study.
  • The supernova explosion was a rare observable that caught the attention of the entire scientific community.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'observable'

The word 'observable' originated from the Latin word 'observabilis', which means 'that can be observed'. It first appeared in English in the mid-17th century. The term became popular in the scientific community to describe phenomena that could be perceived or studied through observation using various instruments and methods.


See also: nonobservance, observance, observant, observantly, observation, observational, observationally, observe, observer, observers, observing, unobservant, unobserved.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,915 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.