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
sichtbar
visible
Clearly recognizable, obvious, or apparent.
EXAMPLE
Seine Enttäuschung über das Ergebnis war für alle sichtbar.
His disappointment about the result was visible to everyone.
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 offensichtlich
obvious / apparently
Sichtbar describes something that can be perceived directly with the eyes. Offensichtlich, by contrast, describes an inference that appears conclusive based on the circumstances. Sichtbar is appropriate for an outward sign, while offensichtlich is appropriate for the condition inferred from it.
sichtbar
Nach dem lauten Aufprall war an Pauls Stirn eine kleine Wunde sichtbar.
After the loud impact, a small wound was visible on Paul's forehead.
offensichtlich
Nach dem lauten Aufprall war offensichtlich, dass Paul sich verletzt hatte.
After the loud impact, it was obvious that Paul had been injured.
In real life
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