Designed in such a way that something can be perceived and experienced directly, intensely, or through the senses.
example
Das Museum macht Geschichte durch interaktive Stationen für Kinder erlebbar.
The museum makes history experienceable for children through interactive stations.
Usage tips
Word structure
The adjective is derived from the verb 'erleben' (to experience). The ending '-bar' means that the action of the verb is possible. 'Erlebbar' therefore literally means that something can be experienced.
EXAMPLE
Dank der neuen Technologie ist virtuelle Realität für jeden erlebbar.
Thanks to the new technology, virtual reality is experienceable for everyone.
Typical combination
A very common combination is 'etwas erlebbar machen' (to make something experienceable). This means presenting something abstract or distant in such a way that it can be experienced directly and intensely.
EXAMPLE
Die Ausstellung will die römische Zeit für Besucher erlebbar machen.
The exhibition aims to make the Roman period experienceable for visitors.
Typical context
This word is often used in the fields of education, museum education, tourism, and marketing. It usually describes interactive or vivid methods.
EXAMPLE
Durch den Audioguide wird die Geschichte des Ortes auf eine neue Weise erlebbar.
Through the audio guide, the history of the place becomes experienceable in a new way.
Compare with
near_synonym
erlebbar vs spürbar
noticeable / palpable
'spürbar' and 'erlebbar' both relate to perceiving something directly. 'spürbar' describes an effect that you clearly notice, for example heat, pressure, fear, or a change. 'erlebbar' describes more that something is designed so that people can actively experience it. The word often fits exhibitions, history, culture, nature, or events. So 'spürbar' says: you notice something. 'erlebbar' says: you can experience something directly and perceive it with the senses.
erlebbar
Im neuen Museum wird die Geschichte der Stadt für Kinder erlebbar.
In the new museum, the city's history becomes something children can experience.
spürbar
Am Abend war die Kälte in der Wohnung deutlich spürbar.
In the evening, the cold in the apartment was clearly noticeable.