are discernible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are discernible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something that can be perceived or detected, often in contexts related to observations or analysis. Example: "The differences in the two paintings are discernible upon closer inspection."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But trends are discernible.

The Economist

Still, some measures are discernible.

The New York Times

The outlines of a deal are discernible.

The Economist

Nevertheless, some general characteristics are discernible.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Already, outlines of consolidation are discernible.

The New York Times

Three sections are discernible in the river's basin.

Britannica

In the Nibelungenlied some elements of great antiquity are discernible.

Britannica

Three main characteristics are discernible in Baltic religion.

Britannica

Shifts in attitude are discernible even in conservative constituencies.

The New Yorker

As it is, no such chameleonesque gifts are discernible.

The New York Times

The signs of a small and tentative rebound are discernible.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are discernible" to describe subtle or not immediately obvious details that become clear upon examination or analysis. For instance, "The subtle nuances in the author's style are discernible after reading several of their works."

Common error

Avoid using "are discernible" when simpler alternatives like "are visible" or "are clear" would suffice. For example, instead of saying "The clouds are discernible in the sky", opt for "The clouds are visible in the sky" if the observation is straightforward.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are discernible" functions as a linking verb phrase followed by an adjective, indicating the capability of something to be perceived or understood. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples showcasing its use in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

29%

News & Media

29%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are discernible" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression indicating that something can be perceived or understood, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's versatile, appearing across various contexts from scientific analyses to news reports, though it is most commonly found in Science, Encyclopedias and News & Media. While useful for highlighting details that require some analysis to notice, it's best to avoid overuse in simple observations where clearer alternatives like "are visible" might be more appropriate. Knowing the nuances of when and how to use "are discernible" will ensure clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be detected

Focuses on the act of detecting something, suggesting a more active observation.

can be observed

Emphasizes the visual aspect of noticing something.

can be perceived

Highlights the sensory experience of becoming aware of something.

are noticeable

Indicates that something is easily observed or attracts attention.

are evident

Suggests that something is obvious and clear.

are apparent

Implies that something is easily understood or recognized.

are distinguishable

Emphasizes the ability to differentiate between things.

are recognizable

Indicates that something can be identified or remembered.

are detectable

Highlights the capability of being discovered or found.

can be made out

Implies that something is understood with some effort.

FAQs

How can I use "are discernible" in a sentence?

Use "are discernible" to indicate that certain details or features can be noticed or understood, often after careful observation or analysis. For example, "The improvements in his performance are discernible after consistent practice".

What can I say instead of "are discernible"?

You can use alternatives like "are noticeable", "are evident", or "are apparent" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "are discernible" or "are discernable"?

"Are discernible" is the correct spelling. "Discernable" is an acceptable variant, but "discernible" is more commonly used and preferred in formal writing.

What's the difference between "are discernible" and "are visible"?

"Are discernible" implies that something requires some effort or analysis to notice, whereas "are visible" simply means something can be seen. Something that is "are visible" is immediately apparent, while something that "are discernible" might require closer inspection.