en English es español fr française it italiano de deutsche ja 日本語 pl polski cs česky sv svenska tr Türkçe nl Nederlands

"Perceptible" vs. "discernible": spotting the nuances

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 13/12/2024, 10:25
English.me team member
Perceptible and discernible. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "perceptible" and "discernible" describe something that can be noticed or detected, either through the senses or the mind. They both refer to the ability to perceive or recognize something.

What is different?

"Perceptible" generally refers to something that can be sensed or felt physically and is directly noticeable to the senses. "Discernible" often implies that something can be detected through careful observation or analysis, possibly requiring more effort or keen perception.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for perceptible) and discernible

Examples of usage

Perceptible
  • There was a perceptible change in his tone.
  • The tension in the room was almost perceptible.
  • She noticed a perceptible difference in the quality of the fabric.
Discernible
  • The ship was barely discernible in the fog.
  • There was no discernible reason for his sudden departure.
  • The influence of the new policy is discernible in the company's performance.

Recommended posts in Difference

Exploring contempt: the nuances of "sneer" and "scorn"

Exploring contempt: the nuances of "sneer" and "scorn"

A "sneer" is a facial expression or tone of voice ... Learn more →

"Enmity" vs. "hostility": shades of antagonism

"Enmity" vs. "hostility": shades of antagonism

"Enmity" implies a deep-seated, long-standing mutual hatred or ill-will between ... Learn more →

"Ferociously" vs. "fiercely": nuances of intensity

"Ferociously" vs. "fiercely": nuances of intensity

The word "ferociously" often implies a more savage, wild, or ... Learn more →

"Television" vs. "broadcasting": the duo of sight and signal

"Television" vs. "broadcasting": the duo of sight and signal

"Television" refers to both the device and the medium of ... Learn more →