Tangible: Understanding the Touchable and Concrete
Explore the meaning, history, and usage of the word ‘tangible’. Learn how this adjective describes things that can be touched or perceived, and how it differs from abstract concepts. Perfect for SAT prep and everyday communication.
Imagine reaching out to touch your phone screen. You can feel its smooth surface beneath your fingertips.
This ability to physically touch and perceive something is the essence of our word for today: tangible.
Word type: Tangible is an adjective.
Meaning: Tangible means capable of being touched or perceived by touch.
It also refers to something real or concrete, rather than imaginary or abstract.
Word history: The word tangible comes from the Latin word tangibilis, which means touchable.
It is derived from the verb tangere, meaning to touch.
Synonyms: Some synonyms for tangible include palpable, concrete, substantial, and material.
Antonyms: Antonyms of tangible are intangible, abstract, theoretical, and incorporeal.
Examples use in sentences:
The scientist needed tangible evidence to support her theory. Many people prefer tangible books over e-books because they enjoy the physical experience of turning pages.
The company’s success became tangible when they moved into their new, larger office space. Common errors in use:
A common mistake is using tangible to describe emotions or ideas. While the effects of these may be tangible, the concepts themselves are intangible.
For example, it would be incorrect to say Love is tangible. Instead, you could say The effects of love can be tangible.
Tangible is a valuable word for the SAT because it helps express the difference between concrete and abstract concepts.
Remember, tangible things can be touched or clearly perceived, making them real and substantial in our physical world.
By mastering this word, you are adding a concrete tool to your vocabulary arsenal, one that will serve you well in both the SAT and beyond.
