is discernible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is discernible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is able to be perceived or detected, often in contexts involving observation or analysis. Example: "In the dim light, a faint outline of the figure is discernible against the backdrop."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some movement is discernible.

The Guardian - Business

The facade, however, is discernible.

The New York Times - Arts

No bomb release is discernible.

The New York Times

But it is discernible and persistent.

The Economist

No such intention is discernible here.

Harvard University

A new momentum is discernible, she believes.

The Guardian

No such difference is discernible from the language of § 1044.

Cornell University

But a general approach to the problem is discernible.

Cornell University

Lack of ambition is discernible on all sides".

The Guardian

There is discernible reality, and there is ideology.

The Guardian

Even now, though, the inchoate significance of 2013 is discernible.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is discernible" when you want to emphasize the potential for something to be perceived or understood, often after some effort or analysis. For instance, "The subtle difference in tone is discernible upon closer listening."

Common error

Avoid using "is discernible" when a simpler term like "is visible" or "is clear" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex and less direct. For example, instead of saying "The crack in the wall is discernible", you could say "The crack in the wall is visible."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is discernible" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a noun's characteristic of being able to be perceived or understood. As shown by Ludwig, the structure indicates that something can be distinguished or detected through the senses or intellect.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

32%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is discernible" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression indicating that something can be perceived or understood, often with careful attention or analysis. As Ludwig's examples show, it appears most often in news, scientific, and academic contexts, suggesting a formal and nuanced register. While versatile, it's best suited for situations where precise language is valued, and a simpler alternative might be preferred in more casual settings. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English, highlighting its reliability in various writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can be detected

Focuses more on the act of detection, often implying a more technical or scientific context.

can be observed

Emphasizes visual perception or direct observation as the means of noticing something.

is noticeable

Indicates something is easily seen or recognized, often without requiring close examination.

is apparent

Suggests something is clear and obvious, leaving little room for doubt.

is perceptible

Implies that something can be sensed or felt, not just seen.

is evident

Highlights that something is easily seen or understood, serving as proof or indication of something else.

is recognizable

Focuses on the ability to identify something based on prior knowledge or experience.

is distinguishable

Highlights the ability to tell something apart from other similar things.

is detectable

Similar to "can be detected" but with a broader application across different senses and instruments.

is identifiable

Implies something can be named or categorized, often after careful analysis.

FAQs

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

Use "is discernible" to indicate that something is capable of being perceived or understood, often through careful observation or analysis. For example, "A faint scent of lavender "is discernible" in the room."

What are some alternatives to "is discernible"?

You can use alternatives like "is noticeable", "is detectable", or "is evident" depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "is discernible" and "is perceptible"?

"Is discernible" often implies that something can be understood or recognized through mental effort or keen perception, while "is perceptible" suggests that something can be sensed through one of the physical senses.

When is it more appropriate to use "is noticeable" over "is discernible"?

Use "is noticeable" when something is easily seen or recognized without much effort. "Is discernible" is better when the observation requires closer attention or analysis.