Intelligible

Adjective

Definition: Able to be understood; comprehensible.

Synonyms: Understandable, Clear, Coherent, Lucid

Antonyms: Unintelligible, Incomprehensible, Confusing

Examples:

The speaker's accent made his words barely intelligible.
The professor explained the complex theory in an intelligible manner.

Mnemonics:

"Intelligible" can be broken down to "intel" (intelligence) and "ligible" (able to be read or understood), so it refers to something that can be understood with intelligence or clarity.
Think of "intelligible" as the opposite of "incomprehensible" – if something is intelligible, it is the opposite of being confusing or unclear.

Etymology:

Origin:

From Latin "intelligibilis", from the verb "intelligere" (to understand)

Historical Usage:

The word "intelligible" originated in the late 14th century and has been used consistently to describe something that can be understood throughout its history.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Make oneself intelligible"

Explanation:

To express oneself clearly and understandably.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "intelligible" with "intelligent".

Explanation:

"Intelligible" refers to something that can be understood, while "intelligent" refers to a person's mental capacity or ability to learn. These two words have distinct meanings and should not be used interchangeably.