Viewable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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viewable

[ˈvjuːəbl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in a movie

Capable of being viewed or seen; visible.

Synonyms

observable, seeable, visible.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
viewable

This appears to be a duplicate of the first word 'viewable,' so it is typically used in the same contexts.

  • The document is viewable online.
  • These options are viewable in the settings menu.
visible

Commonly used to describe something that can be seen clearly, often in everyday contexts.

  • The lighthouse is visible from the shore.
  • There are visible signs of wear and tear on the car.
observable

Refers to something that can be noticed or perceived, often used in scientific or technical contexts.

  • The changes in the plant's growth were observable over a period of weeks.
  • Observable behavior is often studied in psychology.
seeable

Informal term that means something can be seen. It's not commonly used and may feel out of place in formal writing.

  • From the top of the hill, the entire valley was seeable.
  • Is Mount Everest seeable from here?

Examples of usage

  • The film was not very viewable due to poor lighting.
  • The viewable scenery from the top of the mountain was breathtaking.
Context #2 | Adjective

on a website

Able to be displayed or accessed on a screen.

Synonyms

accessible, displayable, readable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
viewable

Used when something can be seen, often applied to objects, images, or content that can be observed or inspected.

  • The museum has several exhibits that are viewable to the public.
  • Is the document viewable on your mobile device?
accessible

Refers to the ease of reaching or using something, often related to usability for people with disabilities or simple availability.

  • The website is accessible to people with visual impairments.
  • Make sure the emergency exit is accessible at all times.
displayable

Used when something can be shown or exhibited, often in a digital or physical space such as screens, galleries, or monitors.

  • The software converts data into a displayable format.
  • Only approved artworks are displayable in the gallery.
readable

Refers to the clarity and legibility of text or data, meaning it can be easily read and understood.

  • The font on this webpage is very readable.
  • Ensure that all labels are readable by consumers.

Examples of usage

  • The website is mobile-friendly and viewable on all devices.
  • The document is viewable by clicking on the link.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In computer science, 'viewable' often refers to digital content that can be easily accessed or displayed on a device.
  • Web accessibility guidelines emphasize creating content that is not only viewable but also comprehensible for people with disabilities.
  • With the rise of streaming services, 'viewable' has become a key term, indicating whether video content is available for watching.

Art and Media

  • In the art world, 'viewable' locations are often designed for optimal lighting and positioning to enhance the viewing experience.
  • Film critics use the term to discuss which films are easily seen in theaters versus those that are relegated to home viewing.
  • Museum exhibitions often highlight parts of collections that are 'viewable' to the public to enhance visitor engagement.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that viewable environments, such as nature scenes, can improve mental well-being and reduce stress.
  • Cognitive psychologists study how viewable information impacts learning retention and the efficiency of information processing.
  • Visibility in social settings can influence people's behavior; individuals are often more formal in viewable spaces.

Pop Culture

  • The popularity of social media platforms has transformed what is considered viewable, with user-generated content becoming central.
  • Reality shows thrive on viewable drama, showcasing unscripted events that keep audiences engaged.
  • Influencers often curate their digital presence to ensure their content remains highly viewable, riding on visibility and trend.

Origin of 'viewable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from combining 'view', which comes from the Latin 'videre' meaning 'to see', with the suffix '-able', meaning 'capable of'.
  • This construction pattern is common in English for making adjectives from verbs, emphasizing ability.
  • First appeared in written English in the 19th century, gaining traction in contexts related to visual media.

The word 'viewable' is a combination of the word 'view' (meaning to see or look at) and the suffix '-able' (indicating capability or capacity). It first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century. The concept of being able to view or see something has been essential throughout human history, from cave paintings to modern digital displays. The evolution of technology has led to the increased use and relevance of the term 'viewable' in various contexts.


See also: interview, overview, preview, review, view, viewer, viewers, viewership, viewfinder, viewing, viewpoint, views.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,894 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.