discernible

Everyday

Discernible means able to be seen, heard, noticed or understood, even if only just. tree →

In the lessons

A formal word in science and reading: «no discernible difference» in a test, «a discernible shape» in fog. It tells the reader that something can be noticed, often with effort. Phrases: «barely discernible», «no discernible difference», «a discernible change».

Examples

• There was no discernible difference between the two plants. tree →
• In the fog, the lighthouse was barely discernible. tree →
• A faint smile was discernible on her face. tree →
• The change in temperature was hardly discernible. tree →
• After a week, there was a discernible improvement in his reading. tree →
• The ship became discernible on the horizon. tree →

Note

Spelling: discernible (with -ible). Verb: «discern» (to notice, often with effort). Formal; everyday: «noticeable», «visible». Opposite: «indiscernible».