01
sichtbar
visible
In such a way that it can be seen or perceived with the eyes.
example
An klaren Tagen ist der Berggipfel von der Stadt aus sichtbar.
On clear days, the mountain peak is visible from the city.
sichtbar
visible
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Word structure
The word is made up of 'Sicht' (view, sight) and the suffix '-bar'. The suffix '-bar' means '-able' or 'possible', so something that is 'sichtbar' (visible) is literally 'seeable'.
EXAMPLE
Durch den Nebel war kaum etwas sichtbar.
Because of the fog, hardly anything was visible.
Literal and figurative
'Sichtbar' (visible) has a literal meaning (you can physically see it) and a figurative meaning (it is obvious). The context makes the difference: with objects it is literal, while with feelings or changes it is often figurative.
EXAMPLE
Die Sterne sind heute Nacht gut sichtbar.
The stars are clearly visible tonight.
Feelings and changes
In its figurative meaning, 'sichtbar' (visible) is often used to describe feelings, reactions, or abstract changes. Typical phrases are 'sichtbare Freude' (visible joy), 'sichtbare Erleichterung' (visible relief), or 'ein sichtbares Zeichen setzen' (to send/set a visible signal).
EXAMPLE
Mit diesem Projekt wollen wir ein sichtbares Zeichen für den Umweltschutz setzen.
With this project, we want to send a visible signal for environmental protection.
Describing processes
To describe the process of something appearing or becoming recognizable, 'sichtbar' (visible) is often combined with the verbs 'werden' (to become) or 'machen' (to make).
EXAMPLE
Langsam wurde die Küste am Horizont sichtbar.
Slowly, the coast became visible on the horizon.
Compare with
sichtbar vs deutlich
clear / clearly
'deutlich' and 'sichtbar' can both mean that something can be clearly recognized. But 'sichtbar' first refers to seeing with the eyes: something is there and you can see it. 'deutlich' is broader. It can refer to seeing, hearing, reading, or understanding and often means: clear, not unclear, not ambiguous. If it is really about something you see with your eyes, 'sichtbar' fits very well. If it is about a clear statement, a clear voice, or a clear difference, 'deutlich' is more natural.
sichtbar
Nach dem Regen waren die Fußspuren im Garten noch gut sichtbar.
After the rain, the footprints in the garden were still clearly visible.
deutlich
Die Lehrerin spricht deutlich, damit alle die Aufgabe verstehen.
The teacher speaks clearly so that everyone understands the task.
In real life
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