a palpable pattern

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a palpable pattern" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a clear and easily perceivable trend or arrangement in data, behavior, or events. Example: "After analyzing the results, we noticed a palpable pattern in customer preferences that could inform our marketing strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Historically, the template for choosing a new mayor resembles a pendulum, swinging from one extreme to another in a palpable pattern.

The New York Times

The string of boats across the harbor called to mind the double helix of a DNA strand, weaving together a millennium of life on Malta's waters, a palpable pattern of time, place and tradition.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Mammographic extent of microcalcifications >15 mm, imaging grade, their pattern of distribution, presence of a palpable mass and detection after the first screening episode showed significant univariate associations with malignancy.

British Journal of Cancer

Even if Don Quixote, once described as "the great pattern book of fiction", resists total adaptation, it is here rendered with a palpable and infectious love and loyalty.

The Guardian

A similar pattern was observed in rats injected with 20 mg NMU/kg BW with only one exception: a palpable tumor and lactational change structure were found in one rat of this group.

BMC Cancer

A palpable hit.

Independent

A palpable chance!

The Guardian - Sport

A hit — a palpable hit!

The New York Times

Al Qaeda was a palpable danger.

The New York Times

It exudes a palpable impatience.

The New York Times - Food

There was a palpable atmosphere".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a palpable pattern" when you want to emphasize that a trend or arrangement is not only present but also easily perceived or felt. It adds a layer of sensory awareness to your description.

Common error

Avoid using "a palpable pattern" in purely technical contexts where a more neutral term like "evident trend" or "discernible pattern" would be more appropriate. The word "palpable" can sound overly descriptive in scientific or mathematical writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a palpable pattern" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the subject complement. It identifies a specific type of pattern that is easily perceived or felt. As Ludwig confirms, it's valid English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a palpable pattern" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that describes a trend or arrangement easily perceived or felt. Ludwig highlights its validity and usability. While not extremely common, its presence in news and scientific contexts indicates its suitability for describing clear and noticeable patterns. Related phrases like "a noticeable trend" or "an evident trend" offer simpler alternatives, and Ludwig's analysis helps clarify its function, purpose, and register. Remember to avoid overuse in technical contexts where a more neutral term might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a noticeable trend

This alternative replaces "palpable pattern" with simpler, more common vocabulary while retaining the sense of an observable trend.

an evident trend

This phrase uses "evident" to convey a clear and obvious pattern, similar to "palpable".

a discernible pattern

"Discernible" suggests a pattern that can be recognized or distinguished.

an observable pattern

This option highlights the fact that the pattern can be seen and noticed.

a recognizable pattern

This alternative emphasizes the pattern's capacity to be identified and remembered.

a conspicuous pattern

"Conspicuous" implies that the pattern is very noticeable and stands out.

a distinct pattern

"Distinct" emphasizes the pattern's clear and unambiguous nature.

a clear trend

This is a straightforward alternative that focuses on the clarity of the trend.

an obvious trend

This option highlights the trend's lack of subtlety or elusiveness.

a manifest pattern

"Manifest" suggests that the pattern is clearly revealed or displayed.

FAQs

How can I use "a palpable pattern" in a sentence?

You can use "a palpable pattern" to describe a clear and easily noticeable trend or arrangement. For example, "After analyzing the data, we observed "a palpable pattern" in customer behavior."

What are some alternatives to "a palpable pattern"?

Some alternatives include "a noticeable trend", "an evident trend", or "a discernible pattern". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "palpable pattern" formal or informal?

"Palpable pattern" leans towards a more formal register due to the slightly elevated vocabulary of "palpable". However, it's appropriate for a wide range of writing contexts, including news, academic work, and professional reports.

What does "palpable" mean in the context of "a palpable pattern"?

In this context, "palpable" means easily perceptible or obvious. It suggests that the pattern is so clear that it can almost be 'felt' or readily recognized.