measurably

Everyday

1. By an amount that can be measured or noticed: «measurably better». tree →
2. Clearly and noticeably, not just a tiny bit. tree →

In the lessons

In science, «measurably» means you can see the change with measurement: «the plant grew measurably in one week». In everyday life it means clearly or noticeably: «my reading has improved measurably». In reports and formal writing it is used to show evidence. Phrases: «measurably better», «measurably different».

Examples

• The plant was measurably taller after a week in the sun. tree →
• Her running speed improved measurably over the term. tree →
• The air in the room was measurably warmer after the heater was on. tree →
• Washing hands measurably reduces germs. tree →
• The new road made the journey measurably shorter. tree →
• Our test scores went up measurably after extra practice. tree →
• The two balls were measurably different in weight. tree →
• The pond is measurably lower in summer. tree →

Note

Adverb from «measurable» + «-ly». Formal. Opposite: «immeasurably» (so much that it cannot be measured; often means «hugely»). In maths/science a measurable change must be bigger than the error of the measuring tool.