WordGarden.iovisible
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /vˈɪzəbəl/
US
- /ˈvɪzəbəl/
Meanings
Adjective
able to be seen; in plain view
easy to notice or recognize; apparent
publicly noticeable, prominent, or represented
Beyond the definition
Something that is visible can be seen. It is not hidden or out of sight. Think of a bright red fire truck - it is very easy to see on the road. But this is not only about brightness; even something dark can be visible if there is enough light. A small change in someone's expression might be visible to a close friend who knows them well. Sometimes "visible" is also used in a figurative way, like when we say "the effects of climate change are becoming increasingly visible."
The opposite of visible is invisible - think of ghosts or things hidden from view. You can make something visible by shining a light on it, or you can make it less visible by covering it up. A skilled magician makes objects appear and disappear, playing with what is visible and what is not.
The word "visible" describes anything that is capable of being seen. It seems simple enough, but its meaning extends beyond just physical sight. While a brightly colored bird soaring through the sky is undeniably visible, so too can be things less concrete. A change in someone's mood might be visible in their body language, or the consequences of a decision might become visible over time.
Visibility depends on several factors: light, distance, and clarity all play a role. Something might be visible from one vantage point but not another. Fog can reduce visibility, making it difficult to see even nearby objects. In astronomy, "visible planets" are those that can be seen with the naked eye - like Venus or Mars.
"Visible" is often used in contexts where something has become apparent or noticeable after being hidden or unclear. For example: "The cracks in the foundation were only visible after the heavy rains." Or, "Her talent was immediately visible to everyone in the room."
Figuratively, we might talk about making a problem visible - meaning bringing it to light so that it can be addressed. A protest march aims to make an issue visible to the public and policymakers. So whether you're describing something literally seen with your eyes or something figuratively brought into awareness, "visible" signifies being open to perception and readily apparent.
Examples
- 1
Weather
After the fog lifted, the bridge was visible again.
- 2
Low light
The writing on the sign was barely visible in the dark.
- 3
Viewpoint
On a clear day, the island is visible from the coast.
- Patternvisible from + place
able to be seen from that place
- 4
Privacy settings
Your profile is only visible to people in your class.
- Patternvisible to + person/group
able to be seen by that person or group
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Physical evidence
There were visible signs of water damage on the ceiling.
- 6
Public role
After the promotion, she moved into a much more visible role in the company.
- 7
Regional effects
The effects of the drought are now clearly visible across the region.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- clearly visible
- visible to the naked eye
- visible from a distance
- become visible
Word family
Explore
- line of sight
- exposure
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- visiblenounadjective
Forms
- visiblespluralnounadjective